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Joint Pain Q & A

What is joint pain?

Joint pain is a common complaint and includes any discomfort in or around a joint. Your joints form the connection between two or more bones, which are held together and cushioned by ligaments, tendons, muscles, and cartilage. 

Though some of your joints are fixed, most of the joints in your body are mobile joints, allowing you to write, stand, and climb stairs. The regular use of your joints takes its toll, making the joints vulnerable to injuries and conditions that cause pain.

When you have joint pain, you may find it hard to manage your daily routine.

What are common causes of joint pain?

You can develop joint pain from an acute injury, overuse, or chronic condition. Common causes of joint pain include:

  • Arthritis
  • Sprains and strains
  • Tendonitis
  • Bursitis
  • Cartilage tear
  • Rotator cuff tear
  • Joint dislocation
  • Fracture

Joint pain can occur in any joint in the body. The pain providers specialize in treating large joints like the hips, knees, and shoulders. 

What happens during a joint pain evaluation?

The pain management physicians at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute conduct a thorough evaluation when you come in with concerns about joint pain. They understand how joint pain affects your quality of life and want to help you get back to your active lifestyle.

They ask detailed questions about your pain, including when it started, the discomfort you feel, and the activities that make it worse. They review your medical history and daily routine and perform a physical exam.

Your provider may also request imaging studies of your joint to confirm or rule out a cause. 

What are some treatment options for joint pain?

Treatment for your joint pain depends on the underlying cause. Your provider at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute talks to you about your diagnosis and the treatments that can improve joint health and mobility.

Treatment options for joint pain include:

  • Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Physical therapy
  • Bracing, splinting, or casting
  • Joint pain injections

Your provider works closely with you, adjusting your plan so that you get the best outcomes. If you have severe joint damage, they may refer you to a surgeon to discuss other surgical options.

For help with your joint pain, call The Neuroscience and Spine Institute or schedule an appointment online today.