Joint Pain Specialist

What is joint pain?

A joint is a connection where two bones meet. Most joints in your body are mobile, so they allow movement and flexibility. All joints contain a type of flexible tissue, called cartilage, which provides cushion and reduces bone friction. 

Joints need to be flexible to function properly. Any damage to the joints or muscles, ligaments, tendons, or cartilage surrounding the joint can lead to pain and inflammation.

What are the symptoms of joint pain?

Talk to D3 Pain Management if you experience one or more of the following symptoms for an extended period of time:

• Swollen joints
• Tender joints
• Minimized range of motions in joints
• Limping
• Stiffness

Joint pain often feels worse in the morning, right after you wake up, and when you’ve been sitting for long periods of time.

What causes joint pain?

Many conditions and injuries can cause joint pain, but the most common include:

Arthritis

Arthritis is a type of joint inflammation that typically worsens with age. There are two main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Often called the “wear and tear” arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears down, causing your bones to rub against one another. Meanwhile, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes chronic joint swelling.

Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that help cushion your joints. This condition most commonly develops around joints that incur repetitive motions, such as the knees, elbows, or hips.

How is joint pain treated?

Once D3 Pain Management determines the cause of your joint pain, your pain management specialist can recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Joint injections

For targeted relief, your doctor can inject your painful joints with an anesthetic or steroid that reduces pain and inflammation in a matter of days. For pain that affects your knees, a genicular nerve block followed by genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation can help.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can help strengthen your joints and slow the progression of degeneration with muscle-building exercises and stretches that reduce stiffness. Targeted massages can also improve the range of motion in your joints.

To schedule an appointment with D3 Pain Management, call the office or book a visit online today.