Joint pain is a common condition that can significantly affect the quality of your life. Often, this pain is caused by an injury or disease that affects the joints. However, there are many ways to treat joint pain and achieve optimal health. By identifying the root cause and choosing the best treatment option, you can help yourself recover faster and have a better quality of life. Regenerative Medicine Near Me
Your physician will start by taking a full medical history and performing a physical examination. This exam will help your physician determine whether your pain is a symptom of another condition, or if it is simply a result of an injury. He or she will also examine your joint to determine how it’s functioning. Sometimes, an x-ray, MRI, or ultrasound is required to get a clearer picture of the joint.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and Tylenol, can also be effective in treating joint pain. However, stronger doses may require a prescription from a doctor. Another option is a topical treatment that can be applied directly to the affected joint. These can be obtained over-the-counter or from your doctor. In some cases, dietary supplements can also help relieve joint pain.
Physical therapy is another popular treatment for joint pain. This treatment can help heal a damaged joint and restore its strength, stability, and flexibility. Other treatment options include arthroscopy or joint replacement. If conservative treatments don’t work, rest and ice packs can be effective. Massage, manipulation, and heat therapy are other ways to relieve joint pain and restore normal function.
Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help ease pain and improve flexibility. Antidepressants can also be used as part of a joint pain treatment program. Your doctor can also prescribe medicines to help you sleep better. Surgery may be necessary for severe joint pain that hasn’t responded to over-the-counter treatments.
Total joint replacement is another option if your pain is severe or has been bothersome for a long time. A total joint replacement involves the removal of the damaged joint and replacement with an artificial joint. Total joint replacement is a major surgical procedure and should be considered for advanced cases. In some cases, however, arthroscopic surgery is necessary to relieve pain and delay the need for a joint replacement.
Joint pain can be caused by inflammatory diseases. Treatment will aim to prevent and manage inflammation in the body that can damage the joints. Self-care is also necessary when dealing with joint pain. Keeping your head straight can help avoid neck pain. It is important to avoid twisting the neck, because it can hurt the muscles surrounding the neck as much as the joints themselves.
Some patients may benefit from steroid injections. These are usually used for arthritis and tendinitis. However, this treatment is temporary and does not address the underlying injury. Another option is hyaluronic acid injections, which lubricate the joint space. They also help improve mobility.