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Welcome to Southland Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center

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About Southland Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center, Inc

Inland Empire’s Largest Rheumatology Group

Southland Arthritis was founded by Dr. CV Mehta and his wife Deni Mehta in 1983 in the city of Hemet. Over the years, we have expanded throughout Southern California and offer a variety of services for patients with Rheumatic diseases.

Board Certified Doctors

Our Physicians are Board Certified in Rheumatology and are experts in the non-surgical management of Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Arthritis and Osteoporosis.

Graduate Medical Education

Several of our Physicians hold Clinical Faculty positions at Academic Medical Centers and we are a Rheumatology teaching site for doctor's in training.

Clinical Trials

We conduct FDA phase 1-4 clinical trials on various Rheumatic Diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Psoriatic Arthritis, Sjogrens, Gout, Osteoarthritis and Osteoporosis.

Services Offered

Here are some of the main services we offer. To learn more please contact one of our offices located near you.

arthritis joint injection

Joint Injections

The aspiration (draining) and injection of muscles and joints can

Infusion Center

Infusion Center

Many conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus

Bone-Densitometry-&-Heel-Ultrasound-small

Bone Densitometry

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder which is characterized by low bone

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound machines use high-frequency sound

Most Common Diseases

Here are some of the main diseases we treat. To learn more please contact one of our offices located near you.

Rheumatoid-Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or Lupus is an autoimmune disease which

Psoriatic-Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease

Crystalline-Arthropathies

Crystalline Arthropathies

Crystalline arthropathies are a group of inflammatory joint disorders associated

Spondyloarthritis of the spine, for many years called ankylosing spondylitis,

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Spondyloarthritis of the spine, for many years called ankylosing

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and affects millions

Chronic Back Pain

Chronic Back Pain

Back pain affects a large number of adults at some time in their lives.

advanced-osteoporosis

Advanced Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition of bones in which bones become brittle and break

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and

Dr Amal Mehta is a very compassionate and professional doctor. He takes the time to listen to you. He also takes the time to explain things in a way you can understand. I've never felt rushed during a visit. It's been my experience in California that good drs are hard to come by. Dr Mehta is an exception. I highly recommend him.

Angie Dunbar

Google

I've been going to Dr. Mehta for several years and have been extremely happy with the care and treatment he's provided. He's helped me get my lupus under control and I have been feeling great. I appreciate Dr. Mehta listening to what I need and making sure everything is in check.

Nikki Aguirre

Google

Dr. Philpotts is very attentive, thorough caring and listens to all my mom's concerns. If it wasn’t for him we wouldn’t have found the diagnoses for my mom and get her the care she needs. The office is always clean and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. I’ve heard horror stories from people about their Rheumatologist. But, I will definitely say going to Southland Arthritis and seeing Dr. Philpotts is a breath of fresh air and we’ll continue to get treatment here for the foreseeable future. Thank you for all that you do for your patients.

Shelita Martinez

Google

Everyone here was wonderful – from the front desk, to Dr. Bravo and her assistant. They all put me at ease. Dr. Bravo explained my lab results in both technical terms and in terms a lay person would understand. Wait times were short. This doctor visit was a very pleasant experience all round.

Jean McIntyre Lusky

Google

Dr. Trivedi is the best doctor I've been to since as long as I can remember. She is so kind, informative, thorough and most importantly genuine and caring. Unfortunately, finding a doctor this amazing is so rare and I am extremely happy to have found her! I feel so comfortable and taken care of. Thank you for being awesome Dr. Trivedi. You most definitely change lives for the better.

Breanna Crane

Google

Dr Panikkath and staff are very friendly and professional. Dr Panikkath dedicated time and answered all my questions and explained thoroughly. Had a pleasant experience. Would recommend this specialist to anyone.

Nancy Gomez

Google

Southland Arthritis is a great office. Dr Ramaswamy is great! He really listens to you and does whatever is needed to treat your symptoms. His staff is wonderful! Always so helpful and professional. I would recommend them to everyone!

Pamela Stone

Google

Dr Colburn is amazing and very thorough. He knows his stuff and is always helpful. Definitely listens to his patients.

Amanda Amarilla

Google

I absolutely recommend this clinic to everyone suffering from RA. My husband started seeing Dr Chavez in April of this year and I can honestly say I see a 75% improvement in his health. Dr Chavez is very proactive with her treatment plan, she is compassionate, professional and knowledgeable. Staff is very nice and professional as well.

Rebeca Guzman

Google

The girls at the front desk are friendly and so helpful. Come to the back, and the medical assistants are also friendly. I have seen Angel Bustamante and he explains everything so well, answers any questions I may have. There is also minimal wait time! Definitely recommend!

Liliana Lemus Diaz

Google

Today I saw Lisa Asfahani. I was very impressed by her such a good listener and answered my questions and very informative. I look forward to being your patient. Thank you so much.

Linda Gonzales

Google

The Southland Arthritis medical group has been very good and professional to me. The doctors are very caring and knowledgeable. They really care and listen to your personal needs. I highly recommend this facility.

Sonja Novak

Google

Our Blog

Latest Blog & Articles

Find answers to your questions or read interesting articles about Arthritis and Rheumatology treatments

Q&A's

In 2026, arthritis treatment has advanced with a mix of traditional therapies and new options like biologic injections and targeted oral medications with fewer side effects. Personalized treatment plans based on genetic markers and disease progression are also more common.

Yes, biologics remain highly effective for many forms of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis. In 2025, newer generations of biologics are more targeted, often requiring fewer doses and offering faster relief with reduced immune suppression.

Yes. Joint replacement surgery is now more precise thanks to robotic-assisted surgery and 3D-printed implants tailored to individual patients. Recovery times have improved, and minimally invasive techniques are reducing complications.

There is still no complete cure for arthritis, but in 2025, treatments can significantly slow progression, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. Early diagnosis and a customized treatment plan make long-term joint damage less likely.

Artificial intelligence is used to analyze patient data and predict which treatments will be most effective. It also helps monitor disease activity, track flare-ups, and adjust medications in real time through connected health apps and devices.

Yes. Several new disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and targeted synthetic medications are available in 2026. These drugs are designed to block specific pathways in the immune system with fewer side effects than older medications.

Absolutely. In 2025, doctors emphasize an anti-inflammatory diet, regular low-impact exercise, stress management, and weight control as essential components of arthritis care. Personalized wellness plans are now often part of medical treatment.

Yes. Many patients now use wearable devices to track joint movement, detect swelling, monitor activity levels, and receive feedback to prevent overexertion. This real-time data helps doctors fine-tune treatment plans remotely.

If you experience persistent joint pain, stiffness, swelling, or fatigue that lasts more than a few weeks, it’s time to consult a rheumatologist. Early diagnosis and treatment from a specialist in 2025 can prevent long-term joint damage and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Chandrakant Mehta

Dr. Chandrakant Mehta

Dr. Chandrakant Mehta was the first Rheumatologist to practice in the cities of Hemet and Menifee and has been providing medical care in Southern California since 1983. Dr. Mehta and his wife, Deni Mehta, established Southland Arthritis & Osteoporosis Medical Center and have been blessed with a very loyal and hardworking staff! Dr. Mehta completed his Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine at Easton Hospital in Pennsylvania and completed his fellowship at Loma Linda University. Dr. Mehta is dual Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Dr. Mehta enjoys walking, traveling and playing with his grandchildren!

Dr.colburn-keith

Dr. Keith Colburn

Dr.Keith Colburn is a distinguished Professor of Medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine where he served as the Chief of Rheumatology until 2014 and was the Chief of Rheumatology at the Loma Linda VA Hospital until 2016. Dr.Colburn has published over 50 articles in medical journals and was the associate editor for the Journal of Investigative Medicine. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and American College of Rheumatology and is dual board certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Dr.Colburn has trained many of the practicing Rheumatologists in Southern California and he enjoys traveling and birdwatching.

Dr. Amal Mehta

Dr. Amal Mehta

Dr. Amal Mehta grew up in Hemet and was heavily influenced by his father’s passion for Medicine. Dr.Mehta earned a B.A. in Economics from UCLA, a Healthcare MBA from George Washington University and Medical Degree from Ross University School of Medicine. Dr. Mehta completed his Internal Medicine Internship and Residency at Banner University Medical Center and his Rheumatology Fellowship at Loma Linda Medical Center. Dr. Mehta is Dual Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology and has participated as an investigator in over 50 clinical trials for various Rheumatic diseases. Dr. Mehta is Clinical Faculty at Loma Linda Medical Center and is involved in Rheumatology education for the Family Medicine Residency Program at Loma Linda’s Murrieta Campus. Dr.Mehta enjoys playing tennis, traveling and spending time with his family and he looks forward to making a positive impact in the lives of his patients.

Dr. Dharmarajan Ramaswam

Dr. Dharmarajan Ramaswamy

Dr.Ramaswamy completed his Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine at Lincoln Medical Center in New York. Dr.Ramaswamy completed his Rheumatology fellowship at the University of Southern California and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Dr.Ramaswamy is an avid reader and enjoys spending time with his family.

Nasim-Daoud,-MD,-RhMSUS

Dr. Nasim Daoud

Nasim Daoud, MD, RhMSUS

Dr. Nasim Daoud is a board-certified rheumatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, gout, osteoporosis, vasculitis, and ankylosing spondylitis. He is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care and works closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that improve function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life.

Dr. Daoud is certified in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound in Rheumatology (RhMSUS), an advanced imaging technique that helps improve the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases. He also has a strong interest in clinical research and has participated in studies involving lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Prior to joining Southland Arthritis, Dr. Daoud served as Section Chief of Rheumatology at the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System and held a faculty appointment at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, where he taught and mentored rheumatology fellows, residents, and medical students. He has received multiple teaching awards, including the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Loma Linda University Rheumatology Fellowship Program and the Faculty Teaching Award from the University of California, Riverside Internal Medicine Residency Program.

Dr. Daoud earned his medical degree from Damascus University Faculty of Medicine, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Unity Health System, and completed his Rheumatology Fellowship at Loma Linda University. He has been recognized as a Vegas Inc. Top Doctor in Rheumatology and remains dedicated to helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes through expert, patient-centered care.

Danielle-Poth

Danielle Poth, PA-C

Danielle has several years of experience caring for patients with a wide range of autoimmune, inflammatory, and musculoskeletal conditions. She evaluates and treats diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, gout, osteoporosis, vasculitis, polymyalgia rheumatica, and osteoarthritis, among others. She is experienced in managing complex rheumatic diseases through evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs and goals.

Committed to providing the highest quality care, Danielle actively pursues continuing education to stay current with advances in rheumatology. She has completed educational courses through the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and regularly attends rheumatology conferences and professional meetings to expand her clinical knowledge and stay current on emerging therapies, treatment guidelines, and best practices in patient care.

Her clinical interests include early diagnosis and intervention, disease management, biologic and targeted therapies, osteoporosis prevention and treatment, and helping patients improve function and quality of life. Danielle collaborates with patients to educate them about their conditions and treatment options, empowering them to take an active role in their healthcare journey.

Known for her compassionate and approachable style, Danielle strives to build lasting relationships with her patients and provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. She values open communication, shared decision-making, and treating each patient with empathy and respect.

Outside of the clinic, Danielle enjoys traveling, exploring San Diego’s outdoor lifestyle, and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Stephanie Song

Dr. Stephanie Song is an east coast native from the suburbs of Philadelphia, PA. She completed medical school at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, which was followed by Internal Medicine residency at Temple University Hospital. She then completed Rheumatology fellowship training at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Song has expertise in
musculoskeletal ultrasound, has a clinical interest in Rheumatoid Arthritis, and is a member of the American College of Rheumatology. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, family, friends and dog. She is committed to and inspired by her patients, dedicated to practicing thorough and evidenced-based care, and pleased to be a part of the team at
Southland Arthritis.

DrAmit-Sureen

Dr. Amit Sureen

Dr. Amit Sureen earned a B.S. from UC Irvine, followed by a M.S. and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Sureen completed his Internal Medicine residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in El Paso, and his Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of Missouri.  

Dr. Sureen’s approach to treating rheumatic diseases involves actively listening to patients to understand their needs, providing education, and using evidence-based medicine to achieve the best possible outcomes. He believes that each patient’s experience and needs are unique, and creates individualized treatment plans to meet each patient’s specific health goals. Dr. Sureen feels privileged to build lasting relationships with his patients and genuinely enjoys providing for their care and comfort. 

Dr. Sureen specializes in treatment of Arthritis, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Gout, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Scleroderma, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, Inflammatory Myopathies, and Vasculitis.

In his spare time, he enjoys playing basketball, hiking, exercising and traveling. He genuinely cares about the well-being of his patients and is proud to be a part of the Southland Arthritis team. 

Angel Bustamante, PA-C.

Angel Bustamante, PA-C.

Angel Bustamante PA-C completed his Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at California State University Fullerton. He then earned his Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Western University of Health Sciences in the city of Pomona. He is nationally certified as a Physician Assistant. He grew up in Orange County prior to settling in the Inland Empire and has been treating Rheumatic diseases and performing joint injections since 2003. He enjoys snowboarding, jet skiing, traveling, exercising and spending time with his family and friends. He aspires to make a difference in his community by providing compassionate care and improving the quality of life of his patients.

Lisa Asfahani, PA-C

Lisa Asfahani, DHSc, PA-C

Lisa Asfahani DHScPA-C is certified and state licensed Physician Assistant practicing in Rheumatology. Lisa graduated from California State Polytechnic University with Bachelor’s degree in Biology, her Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Sciences from Loma Linda University in 2011 and most recently, her Doctorate degree in Health Sciences from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences in 2022. Lisa is experienced in both Rheumatology as well as in General Medicine andinvolved in numerous clinical studies in the field of Rheumatology. She is member of several professional societies including the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) and California Academy of Physician Assistants (CAPA). Lisa’s goal in patient care is to treat each patient/provider interaction as an opportunity serve, to teach, and to heal. She enjoys traveling and spending time with family whenever she can. 

Alvin Yan, PA-C

Alvin Yan, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He attended California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he majored in Biology before moving to North Carolina and obtaining his Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree at Campbell University. Alvin’s first introduction to Rheumatology was during his clinical elective rotation at WakeMed Raleigh, which instilled in him a sense of wonder and fascination with the specialty. Alvin treats a variety of inflammatory joint diseases, including Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Gout. He continues to advocate for patients afflicted with rheumatologic conditions and provides patient-focused, individualized and compassionate care for all of his patients. As a southern California native, Alvin enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking trails, and experiencing the newest food trends.

Jaclyn-Aldana,-PA-C1

Jaclyn Aldana, PA-C

Jaclyn Aldana, PA-C is a certified Physician Assistant practicing in the field of Rheumatology since 2018. Jaclyn is a Texas native and completed her Master’s in Physician Assistant studies in 2017 at the University of California Keck School of Medicine.

Jaclyn is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA)and is involved in several medical studies in the field of Rheumatology.

Jaclyn is a proud mother of two boys and enjoys spending time with her family.

Augusto-Banayat,-FNP

Augusto Banayat, FNP

Augusto Famanas Banayat is an experienced Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner with a strong clinical background in patient-centered care and chronic disease management. He began his healthcare career after earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chinese General Hospital College of Nursing, Philippines. He later advanced his education in the United States, earning his Nurse Practitioner degree from United States University. Throughout his career, Augusto has worked with many respected healthcare organizations including Fresenius Medical Care, Davita Medical Center, Cabrillo Center for Rheumatic Diseases and Kaiser Permanente. Outside of his professional life, Augusto enjoys mountain biking and fishing.

Deni Mehta

Deni Mehta

Deni Mehta – co-founded the medical practice with her husband on June 14th, 1983 in the city of Hemet, California. Deni has a Bachelors degree in Chemistry and a Bachelors degree in Education. Deni is the Practice Administrator for Southland Arthritis and is also a certified DEXA technician. Deni has been instrumental to the growth of Southland Arthritis and has established strong business relationships with other providers and administrators. Deni enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with her family.

Dr. Marc Phillpotts

Dr. Marc Phillpotts

Dr. Marc Phillpotts is a board certified physician in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Dr. Phillpotts earned his medical degree at The University of the West Indies in Jamaica. He moved to Washington, DC where he completed Residency training in Internal Medicine at Howard University Hospital, then Fellowship training at the George Washington University. He has held an academic position as an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the GW SMHS. He is a member of several professional societies including the American Medical Association, International Society of Clinical Densitometry and American College of Rheumatology. Dr. Phillpotts has expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound and bone densitometry. In his spare time, Dr. Phillpotts enjoys running, swimming and tennis.