The role the rheumatologist plays in health care depends on several factors and needs. Often the rheumatologist works with physicians who specialize in other areas, as well as many skilled professionals, including nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychologists, and social workers. Teamwork is important since musculoskeletal disorders often are chronic. Health care professionals can help people with musculoskeletal diseases and their families cope with the changes the diseases cause in their lives.