Depending on the cause of your joint pain, you may need a variety of treatment options, from medications to surgery. Initially, a doctor will perform a physical exam to identify the cause of your joint pain. The doctor may also order x-rays to identify the specific location of the injury. For severe pain, blood tests are also necessary. Regardless of the type of joint pain you have, early treatment will keep it from getting worse.Sandy Springs Sports Injury Clinic – QC Kinetix (Sandy Springs) has some nice tips on this.
For mild to moderate joint pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be a good choice. However, these medications can cause side effects, so they should be taken carefully. More severe cases may require stronger opioid medication or other more aggressive joint pain treatment options. Often, a combination of these treatments is the most effective solution.
Physical therapy is also a great treatment option for joint pain. This method works by strengthening the muscles around the painful joint. It can also help prevent further injury and improve range of motion. Cold and heat therapy can also be very helpful, as can nerve stimulation. The best joint pain treatment clinics have highly trained staff members who specialize in this type of pain treatment.
A medical examination will help identify the underlying cause of joint pain. In some cases, your doctor may recommend an x-ray or blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. Once they have established the diagnosis, your doctor can prescribe treatment. Treatments for joint pain can range from home remedies to prescription medications and injections.
Over-the-counter drugs and physical therapy are two common options for treating arthritis. However, many people have experienced adverse reactions to some medications, and it is important to follow instructions carefully. If these options don’t provide relief from your joint pain, your doctor may recommend surgery. However, surgery is rarely recommended unless your pain has gone on for a long time.
Depending on the cause of your joint pain, a physical therapist can prescribe an exercise program that will improve your overall quality of life. Often, these programs last several weeks and require at least half an hour of therapy each day. Some clinics combine physical therapy with other treatments, including mental therapy. Physical therapy can also improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the joint.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also effective for treating joint pain. Heat and ice applications are also helpful for relieving muscle spasms around the joint. However, the best treatment is medical diagnosis. Only a doctor can determine if you have arthritis and prescribe the best treatment for your condition.
