expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Thomas Olenginski, M.D.

Rheumatologist

Dr. Thomas Olenginski is a rheumatologist practicing in Danville, PA. Dr. Olenginski specializes in the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases and systematic autoimmune conditions that can affect the bones, muscles or bones. Eventually, if not treated, these illnesses can also impact the skin, eyes, nervous system and internal organs. Dr. Olenginski treats diseases similar to orthopedists but does not perform surgery. Often times, research is conducted to find potential alternatives for the patients illness.
44 years Experience
Dr. Thomas Olenginski, M.D.
  • Danville, PA
  • Penn State University
  • Accepting new patients

Restless leg syndrome?

This could be RLS
Review with primary care doctor
If questions Neurology is best next step

Hand surgery for RA - what to expect?

Only an experienced Hand Surgeon can Answer these questions. Rheumatologists are not surgeons, but know when to refer to surgery

Shingles treatment?

I would talk to your doctor about the Shingles Vaccine
Many patients develop post-shingles neuropathy
This can be managed with gabapentin, lyrica, other meds

Is this RLS or something else? Any solutions?

Highly recommend seeing your doctor

If RLS, most primary care doctors are comfortable managing RLS

If problematic, Neurology can assist

Painful

Lupus does not directly cause spinal pain
The abnormalities you describe are likely due to other causes

Chronic pain in multiple places?

Suggest 1) Obtain diagnosis or diagnoses other physicians have made 2) You need a multidisciplinary medical team including primary care, Pain Specialist, Physical Therapist , Pain READ MORE
Suggest
1) Obtain diagnosis or diagnoses other physicians have made
2) You need a multidisciplinary medical team including primary care, Pain Specialist, Physical Therapist , Pain Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
3) Avoid Opioids
4) Aquatherapy
5) Consider Cymbalta, gabapentin, Lyrica or Savella

Best wishes

I have a severe pain in my joints post my delivery. What could be the cause for this?

Autoimmune conditions such as Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis can develop post-partum

Suggest that you see your doctor and be evaluated

Sensitivity to Vibration

I agree with you that Neurology Consultation is advisable

Stiffness in left hand?

A few comments 1) if ultrasound shows synovitis ( joint inflammation), that needs Followup 2) A normal EMG is very reassuring as most symptomatic ALS pts will have a very characteristic READ MORE
A few comments
1) if ultrasound shows synovitis ( joint inflammation), that needs Followup
2) A normal EMG is very reassuring as most symptomatic ALS pts will have a very characteristic abnormality on EMG
Best wishes!

Can excess sun exposure weaken my bones?

Given sun exposure, would expect Vitamin D level to be in an excellent range, which would be good for bone health On a general medical side, would recommend sunblock to prevent READ MORE
Given sun exposure, would expect Vitamin D level to be in an excellent range, which would be good for bone health
On a general medical side, would recommend sunblock to prevent sunburns and future risk of skin cancer

Bone infection?

Typically shingles will break out and run its course, unless there is a secondary bacterial skin infection
You should ask your doctors about the shingles vaccine

Is my constant body pain for real?

Chronic pain is very common
Most importantly, see your doctor to address these concerns
It is not in your head - your body is telling you something; please get checked

I have low RDW, high immature granulocytes and a few other things?

The lab indices you mention esp RDW are not indices we commonly look at- essentially we look at WBC, hemoglobin and hematocrit and platelet count and diff - I would ask your doctor READ MORE
The lab indices you mention esp RDW are not indices we commonly look at- essentially we look at WBC, hemoglobin and hematocrit and platelet count and diff - I would ask your doctor to run that by a Hematology colleague
as for low Alkaline Phosphatase, you should be evaluated to exclude Hypophosphatasia
I hope you feel better!

What type of brace do you get after knee surgery?

Not being a surgeon, I would defer answering to an orthopaedic surgeon

Muscle aches?

I always recommend starting with your family doctor or internist. I would start there

Long-term knee pain?

At your age, I suspect you have anterior knee syndrome or what we call “patellofemoral syndrome” - I would advise seeing a physical therapist and if no response to therapy, perhaps READ MORE
At your age, I suspect you have anterior knee syndrome or what we call “patellofemoral syndrome” - I would advise seeing a physical therapist and if no response to therapy, perhaps see Orthopaedist or Sports Medicine doctor

Is this just all in my head or growing pains or is it something more?

I do not know the extent of your evaluation, but I would suggest a Pediatric Rheumatology consult

Is my son okay?

I am an adult Rheumatologist; Given your concerns, recommend Pediatric Cardiology to weigh in here

Is walking good for knee arthritis?

Yes, walking is good for the knee joint and muscles and ligaments and also good for your thigh muscles- perhaps 1-2 visits with a physical therapist can help you develop the right READ MORE
Yes, walking is good for the knee joint and muscles and ligaments and also good for your thigh muscles- perhaps 1-2 visits with a physical therapist can help you develop the right exercise plan for you