What is Joint Pain?
Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any of the body's joints. Common causes of joint pain include:
- Arthritis - inflammation and swelling of the joint. The most common types that cause joint pain are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Injuries - sprains, strains, broken bones, and dislocations can lead to acute and chronic joint pain
- Medical conditions - lupus, gout, infections, and fibromyalgia can also manifest as joint pain
Some key signs and symptoms of joint pain include:
- Stiffness - especially first thing in the morning or after long periods of inactivity
- Swelling - fluid accumulation and inflammation of the joint
- Redness - inflamed joints may become red and warm
- Decreased range of motion - inability to fully bend or straighten the joint
- Popping sounds or crunching sensation inside the joint
- Difficulty walking or performing daily tasks due to joint discomfort
What causes joint pain?
There are many potential causes, but most joint pain results from:
- Damage or breakdown of the joint cartilage, ligaments, or bones
- Inflammation within or around the joint
Contributing factors can include:
- Age
- Overuse - repetitive motions
- Injury - trauma to joint structures
- Obesity - excess weight puts pressure on joints
- Genetic predisposition
Feeling stiff, sore, and achy? The expert physicians at Endocrine Wellness Center provide cutting-edge care for joint pain and related conditions. We create fully customized treatment plans that can help reduce inflammation, promote cartilage healing, increase mobility, and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
How is joint pain treated?
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. Options may include:
- Pain medications - acetaminophen, NSAIDs, etc
- Joint injections - corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Physical therapy - exercises to maintain and improve joint mobility and strength
- Assistive devices - splints, braces, or canes to support joints
- For osteoarthritis, supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may help rebuild cartilage
- In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be an option
In addition to traditional medical treatments, Endocrine Wellness Center offers regenerative therapies to promote natural joint healing. This can include platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, peptide therapies, and customized compounded bioidentical hormones. Contact us to learn more about our nonsurgical options for lasting joint pain relief!