The initial steps in joint pain treatment involve a visit to an orthopaedic physician. The doctor will review your health history and perform a physical examination to determine the cause of your pain. He or she may also suggest taking vitamins and supplements and doing therapeutic exercises. A number of education measures may also be included in your treatment plan. You can learn more at Knee Specialist Near Me
Physical therapy can help reduce joint pain and increase range of motion. It also decreases the risk of future injuries by strengthening the muscles around the affected joint. Some physical therapists may also use ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, or nerve stimulation to ease pain and promote healing. A physical therapist can also prescribe pain medications for a variety of conditions.
In some cases, joint pain is caused by a serious illness or injury. Some treatments are self-care based, such as stretching and taking a walk. However, if your pain persists, you may require more aggressive treatment. It’s important to listen to your body and seek help as soon as possible. It’s also important to keep a journal of your treatment to help your doctor develop a better treatment plan.
Physical therapy involves performing strengthening exercises and stretching routines to improve joint range of motion and reduce pain. For some people, physical therapy may even include bracing to increase stability and function in the affected joint. Home treatments for joint pain are also effective for many cases. Alternating hot and cold treatments can help reduce joint stiffness. Additionally, sleeping with a heated blanket may be effective for stiff joints.
Over-the-counter NSAIDs can help ease joint pain in mild cases. Pain medications with codeine or paracetamol may also be prescribed by your doctor. However, these medications may have side-effects and cannot cure your condition. Your doctor may also prescribe steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected joints.
If your pain does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, your doctor may recommend a surgery. The procedure can be very expensive and may require multiple surgeries. But in many cases, the treatment can be as simple as modifying your lifestyle and adjusting your medication. Many people find that a combination of simple lifestyle changes, injections, and physical therapy is effective for relieving their pain.
Occupational therapy can also be helpful. An occupational therapist can offer advice about how to manage the joint strain that is causing pain. They can also offer financial assistance if you need it. Depending on the severity of your pain, a GP may also be able to refer you to a local support service for help.
If your pain is severe, a doctor may recommend joint replacement surgery. A total joint replacement involves removing the damaged joint and replacing it with a metal, plastic, or ceramic implant. A joint replacement is an effective treatment option for chronic joint pain but is not right for everyone. Regardless of whether you choose this type of treatment, it is important to understand the risks and preparation for the procedure.