Depending on the type of joint pain, there are many different treatments available. Often, self-care can be effective in managing mild to moderate pain, but severe joint problems require medical treatment. Your doctor can help you choose an effective treatment based on your personal symptoms and goals. It can also be helpful to keep a journal of your treatment, including what works and what doesn’t. You can learn more at QC Kinetix (Aurora)
Generally, joint pain can be treated with non-steroidal drugs and topical medications. In addition, physical therapy helps to improve the range of motion in joints and reduce the risk of future injuries. Exercise is also helpful for people with joint pain because it helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints. Some physical therapists also use additional techniques, such as ultrasound, heat or cold therapy, and nerve stimulation.
Home remedies for joint pain include applying ice to the area to reduce swelling and pain. You may also want to apply a heating pad to a sore joint to relieve any muscle spasms. Other options include taking a hot shower or bath, which can help to relax muscles and ease joint pain.
Another effective joint pain treatment is to use steroid injections. These are usually administered under a local anesthetic. However, these types of medications can cause side effects and should be used only under the supervision of a medical professional. A doctor will recommend which options are most effective for your particular situation.
If your symptoms don’t go away with a course of treatment, you may need to undergo additional imaging and laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause of your joint pain. The results of these tests will confirm whether you have osteoarthritis or not. If you have more questions about your specific case, you can use Healthline’s Find Care tool to find a local doctor. A primary care physician will likely do a physical examination and ask about your symptoms. If necessary, a doctor may order a joint X-ray or complete blood count to screen for autoimmune disorders. In addition, you may be prescribed topical pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling.
Other treatments for joint pain include a healthy diet and exercise routine. By losing excess weight, you can reduce the pressure on your joints. Another treatment option is physical therapy. Physical therapy involves specialized exercises to improve your range of motion and relieve pain. It can also help reduce stiffness and improve function of the joints.
Some people may opt for joint replacement surgery. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small tube with a fiber-optic camera under the skin. A surgeon can then assess the damaged joint tissues and perform surgery to repair them.
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QC Kinetix (Aurora)
1550 S Potomac St, Suite 320
Aurora, CO 80012
(303) 900-8986