Joint pain can be frustrating and disruptive to daily activities. It also tends to persist for a long time. Joint discomfort is a common problem affecting people of all ages and lifestyles. However, the good news is that not every joint issue requires surgery.
This article explores how a bone doctor approaches joint pain. It will focus on non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes to keep your joints healthy.
What Causes Joint Pain?
Various underlying issues can cause joint pain.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis cause your joints to deteriorate and can cause inflammation.
Tendonitis
The tendons in your joints can get inflamed due to overuse or repeated movement. Inflammation and swelling can cause pain.
Bursitis
Irritation or inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning the joints (bursae) can create discomfort.
Sports Injuries
Sprains, strains, or cartilage tears in joints can happen to anyone. However, they tend to happen more often in physically active people.
Age-Related Wear and Tear
The cartilage in your bones will naturally degrade over time. This decreases their ability to absorb shock and impact, which can cause pain.
When Should You See a Bone Doctor for Joint Pain?
Mild joint pain might improve with rest or at-home care. However, you should consult a bone doctor for ongoing or severe joint discomfort. The following symptoms indicate you should see a bone doctor as soon as you can.
- Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks.
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint.
- Limited range of motion or stiffness that impacts daily activities.
- Joint instability or frequent dislocations.
Bone doctors provide targeted care. They can identify the root cause of joint pain and craft a personalized treatment plan for you.
Standard Approaches for Joint Pain Relief
A bone doctor has access to a wide range of non-surgical methods to address joint pain effectively.
Medications
There are many different types of medication that can help manage pain.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are some of the most common pain relievers. Over-the-counter or prescription NSAIDs can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Your doctor might also recommend injecting medication. Corticosteroids are localized injections that provide targeted pain relief. Patients with arthritis or tendonitis might receive these injections as part of their treatment plan.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapists use tailored exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint. These exercises can help improve stability and range of motion.
Exercise is not the only type of physical therapy. There are many other options, like heat and ultrasound. Your provider will recommend the one most suited to your needs.
Lifestyle Modifications
Your lifestyle can play a significant role in the health of your joints. A healthy lifestyle can help reduce the strain on your joints. It also provides your body with the means to repair and strengthen them.
Losing excess weight can reduce the pressure on weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. Low-impact exercises like yoga can help your joints stay flexible without causing additional strain.
An anti-inflammatory diet can decrease systemic inflammation. Oily fish, avocadoes, turmeric, and certain vegetables can all help with inflammation.
Non-Surgical Techniques
Bone doctors often incorporate advanced therapies that blend innovation with effectiveness.
Aspiration
Fluid buildup in a joint can increase pressure in it, causing discomfort. Aspiration removes fluid from a joint. This can relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve mobility.
Shockwave Therapy
High-energy sound waves delivered to the pain site can stimulate blood flow. The extra circulation can speed up the healing process for injuries.
Viscosupplementation
This technique involves injecting hyaluronic acid, a gel-like fluid, into joints. Hyaluronic acid injections can improve lubrication, which can also reduce pain. It is particularly effective for osteoarthritis.
The Role of a Bone Doctor
Visiting a bone doctor for joint pain ensures that you get an accurate diagnosis. Understanding the reason for your joint pain is a critical step in treating it.
Orthopedic specialists bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise when it comes to managing joint issues. Their training includes education in musculoskeletal health and years of clinical experience.
Doctors also continue their education to stay abreast of advancements in treatment options.
Lifestyle Tips for Joint Health
Living a healthy lifestyle can go a long way toward keeping your joints healthy.
Stay Active
Avoid long periods of inactivity—regular movement keeps your joints lubricated and reduces stiffness. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling are great options.
Pay Attention to Posture
Posture is important whether you are sitting at your desk, playing sports, or lifting heavy objects. Maintaining proper posture makes good use of biomechanics to reduce strain on your joints.
Strengthen Supporting Muscles
Adding strength-training exercises to your workout routine bolsters the muscles around your joints. The extra muscle can improve stability and reduce injury risk.
Watch Your Weight
Extra weight puts additional stress on the knees, hips, and other weight-bearing joints. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help you stay within a healthy weight range.
Stay Hydrated
Joints rely on lubrication to move smoothly. Ensure you are drinking enough water every day to keep them hydrated.
Effective Bone Doctor for Joint Pain in San Antonio, TX
If joint pain has been a part of your life for too long, it does not have to stay that way. Many non-surgical treatments are effective options to help you live a pain-free life. A bone doctor can provide dedicated care and personalized treatment for you.
Consult a bone doctor at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine today. We can provide tailored advice and cutting-edge solutions that fit your unique needs. Call us at (210) 692-7400, or schedule a consultation today.
We look forward to helping relieve your joint pain!
Sources:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6828999/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350772
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/physical-medicine-rehabilitation/specialty-areas/back-pain-rehab
