Finding a treatment for joint pain can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. Identifying the cause and treating the symptoms are the first steps. Whether joint pain is acute or chronic, it can limit movement and affect daily activities. A doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the best treatment options.I strongly suggest you to visit QC Kinetix (Greensboro) – Greensboro Knee Replacement to learn more about this.
If joint pain is accompanied by swelling, you should seek medical attention. If the swelling hasn’t gone away after several days, you should consult with a doctor for a more specific diagnosis. It’s best to visit a doctor as soon as possible, because early diagnosis can lead to effective treatment.
A doctor will perform a physical examination and ask a series of questions to determine the source of the pain. Further tests may be necessary to rule out other underlying conditions. X-rays may be ordered to confirm arthritis or autoimmune diseases, and blood tests can detect inflammation levels. Depending on the underlying cause of the pain, your doctor may prescribe medication or physical therapy to reduce inflammation and pain.
Heat is another option for treating joint pain. Heat will help relieve pain and reduce swelling by relaxing muscles around the joint. Regular exercise will also help keep the joint mobile. Occupational therapy aims to improve your daily activities and teach you coping skills to handle the pain and prevent further damage to your joint. In some cases, a physician will prescribe an assistive device to minimize pain and function.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are effective for treating pain and inflammation. Common medications include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. A doctor may also prescribe stronger doses of these drugs. Patients may also benefit from topical treatments applied directly to the affected joint. Some dietary supplements may be beneficial as well.
A complete medical history is necessary to determine the cause of joint pain. A physical exam will show if the joints are swollen, tender, red, or warm. Certain imaging tests can also help diagnose your condition. X-rays can show if cartilage is being destroyed and if bone is rubbing against bone. Blood tests are also helpful.
Inflammation in the joints may be caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungus infection. If left untreated, this infection may result in permanent damage to the joint. The inflammation that results in pain and stiffness can affect joints in the knee, hip, and fingers. It is estimated that around 10 million people in the UK are affected by arthritis. The disease can affect anyone, but tends to occur more frequently in older people. People suffering from arthritis should seek medical help for any persistent joint pain. A doctor will be able to help determine the cause of the pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.