Joint Pain
A joint is a connection between bones. You can count on them for support and assistance. Disease or injury can damage joints and interfere with your ability to move. Any time the body’s joints are aching, uncomfortable, or sore, it is called joint pain. It is common to suffer from joint pain. In most cases, there is no need for hospitalization. A joint injury or illness can cause joint pain. The most common cause of joint pain is arthritis. There are other factors or conditions that can contribute to it as well. The term “joint pain” refers to pain originating from a joint. Knees, shoulders, hips, and elbows are some of the most common joints experiencing pain. The pain may be caused by ligaments, cartilage, or bones within the joint. Every day, one in three Americans experiences joint pain. It’s been adapted by many people, unfortunately. As well as taking daily anti-inflammatory medications, you can limit the activities you do each day to temporarily relieve pain. Individuals, particularly younger patients, often endure pain as long as possible before opting for extreme measures, like joint replacement, in an effort to maintain function.
Causes of Joint Pain
As you age, you are more likely to experience joint pain. An estimated third of adults reported joint pain in the past month in one national survey. Following knee pain were shoulder and hip problems as the most common complaints. Nonetheless, joint pain may occur anywhere in the body, from your ankles to your shoulders to your hands.
A wide range of medical conditions can lead to joint pain:
- Some of the most common causes include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- The body attacks its own tissues when you have rheumatoid arthritis.
- Bursitis is an inflammation of fluid sacs cushioning your joints.
- Those suffering from gout are likely to experience pain in their big toe joint.
- Injuries such as strains and sprains.
Symptoms
Joint pain includes symptoms such as
- joint redness
- joint swelling
- joint tenderness
- joint warmth
- limping
- locking of the joint
- loss of range of motion of the joint
- stiffness
- weakness
How is joint pain diagnosed?
You will probably have a physical exam conducted by your doctor. In addition, they will ask you a series of questions about how your joint pain is. Identifying the causes of the issue may aid in narrowing them down.
To determine the extent of arthritis-related joint damage, an X-ray may be required. You can request a blood test to check for certain autoimmune disorders if your doctor suspects a different cause. Alternatively, they may order a complete blood count or a sedimentation rate test to measure inflammation levels.
Treatments for Joint Pain
It is possible to experience mild pain to debilitating joint pain. This may subside after a few weeks (acute), or last for several weeks (chronic). Swelling and pain in the joints, even in the short term, can affect your quality of life. Medications, physical therapy, or alternative treatments can usually alleviate joint pain depending on the condition.
The condition causing your joint pain will be diagnosed and treated first. Pain can be treated in many ways, depending on its cause. If your doctor suspects infection, gout, or another cause of the joint pain, he may draw out accumulated fluid in the joint area. In addition to surgery, they may recommend joint replacement.
The patient can find some relief from the pain even if the pain cannot be cured. Over-the-counter medication and simple exercises can sometimes relieve the pain. Sometimes the pain is a symptom of a problem that requires prescription medication or surgery.
The pain may be relieved by applying ice or a heating pad to the sore area several times a day and for brief periods of time. In addition to soaking in the bathtub, you may also find relief from discomfort.
Getting strong and functional again can be achieved through exercise. It is best to exercise aerobically with low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling. People who have been participating in sports or workouts that are strenuous may need to scale back or switch to a low-impact routine. You can also benefit from gentle stretches. If you intend to start or continue an exercise program, check with your doctor first.
As a possible measure, you may also be advised to lose weight to lessen the strain on your joints.
An anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen (acetaminophen) may help ease the pain. Over-the-counter versions of both these medicines are available, however, stronger doses may require a prescription from a physician. For people who have had stomach ulcers, liver or kidney disease, talk to your doctor about whether this is a good option for them.
Applied topically to the affected joint area, such as ointments and gels, may ease joint pain. There are some over-the-counter medications, and others may require a prescription from your doctor.
Pain can be relieved by nutritional supplements such as glucosamine. Be sure to check with your doctor before using any dietary supplements over-the-counter.
In the event that those treatments or medications are not effective, the doctor may prescribe:
Using a shoe insert, brace, or cane as a support device can help to ease the joint’s pain. Physical or occupational therapy, mental health counseling, or social work can offer recommendations for the best treatment option(s).
An exercise program and physical therapy may help improve flexibility and ease pain.
If you suffer from joint pain, you may benefit from antidepressants to help you sleep better.
The pain and swelling caused by inflammation can be reduced by short-term use of steroids, often administered as injections into the joint.
Medications that relieve pain.
Every person’s body reacts differently to medicine, even over-the-counter medicines. It might not be the same for everyone what helps someone. When taking any medication, follow the doctor’s instructions carefully, and alert him or her to any side effects.
Chronic Pain Clinic in Nj
It is possible to experience mild pain to debilitating joint pain. This may subside after a few weeks (acute), or last for several weeks (chronic). Swelling and pain in the joints, even in the short term, can affect your quality of life. Medications, physical therapy, joint injections, or alternative treatments can usually alleviate joint pain depending on the condition.
The condition causing your joint pain will be diagnosed and treated first. Pain can be treated in many ways, depending on its cause. If your doctor suspects an infection, gout, or another cause of the joint pain, he may draw out accumulated fluid in the joint area. In addition to surgery, they may recommend joint replacement.
Final words
It is common for joints to suffer pain due to normal wear and tear. However, it can also be the result of an infection or possibly debilitating RA.
Seeing your doctor is wise if you experience unexplained joint pain for more than a few days. Diagnosing and treating your discomfort at an early stage can help you deal with it effectively.
A joint can become painful due to damage caused by normal wear and tear. An infection or possibly debilitating RA can cause it, as well. In case of unexplained joint pain, that does not resolve on its own after several days, you should see your joint pain doctor in NJ. When your discomfort is detected early and diagnosed correctly, you can treat it effectively.
Joint Pain Doctor in NJ
As a Chronic Pain Clinic in New Jersey, WeCare Medical Specialty Group can help if you have any of the above symptoms or conditions. We have five offices across Northern Jersey. For immediate assistance, please call our office at (973)996-2990 or book an appointment online immediately.
Frequently Asked Question
How do I find a joint pain doctor in NJ?
You can find a joint pain doctor in NJ by asking for a referral from your primary care physician or by searching online for a doctor who specializes in joint pain in your area. You can also check with your insurance provider to see which doctors are covered under your plan.
How long does it usually take to get an appointment with a joint pain doctor in NJ?
The wait time for an appointment with a joint pain doctor in NJ can vary depending on the doctor and the clinic. Some doctors may have longer wait times than others, but it's always a good idea to call ahead and check their availability.
Can joint pain doctors in NJ provide telemedicine services?
Yes, many joint pain doctors in NJ offer telemedicine services, which allow you to consult with your doctor remotely using video conferencing technology. This can be a convenient option for patients who are unable to visit the doctor's office in person.
