With symptoms that seem to have appeared out of nowhere and without cause, you probably feel confused about what to do. Whether your arthritis symptoms came on gradually or suddenly, if symptoms persist, consulting your doctor is the right action to take. Your primary care doctor will make a preliminary determination to decide if referring you to a rheumatologist or orthopedic specialist is necessary. Depending on the range of your symptoms, you may require a team of doctors and health-care professionals. Remember that you are on the team, not just a spectator. Your doctors work for you and serve as your advisors.