Common treatments for joint pain include over-the-counter pain relievers and massage. These can relieve pain and inflammation and relax muscles. Sports Medicine Near Me – QC Kinetix (Branson) has some nice tips on this. A hot shower may also relieve discomfort and improve circulation. You should also visit a doctor to determine what is causing your joint pain. If it is due to arthritis or a degenerative disease, a surgeon may need to replace the joint.
A doctor may perform a physical examination and ask a series of questions to determine the cause of the pain. A joint X-ray can also help determine whether your pain is due to arthritis. Blood tests may also be ordered, including a sedimentation rate or complete blood count, to rule out autoimmune disorders. Depending on the cause of your joint pain, your doctor may prescribe topical pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. You may also be advised to do stretches to maintain your range of motion.
Certain types of cancers may lead to joint pain, including osteoporosis, bone cancer, and autoimmune diseases. If your joint pain is caused by a cancer, your health care team can treat the condition to help you live a normal, pain-free life. These treatments include anti-inflammatory medicines and biophosphonates.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can help relieve pain and swelling. These medicines are often prescribed in combination with other treatments, such as physical therapy. For severe cases, doctors may also prescribe stronger opioid medications. A doctor may also prescribe an injection in the joint to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
As part of his approach to treating patients, Dr. Tabby takes a thorough medical history and perform a thorough examination to determine the underlying condition. He will also carefully examine the affected joint and other parts of the body to determine if other health conditions are contributing to the joint pain. If necessary, further tests or examinations may be ordered.
Surgery is a last-resort treatment for joint pain. While it is a good option for some, it carries risks and has a low success rate. Joint replacement should only be performed by an orthopaedic physician. It is important to seek treatment early to avoid complications and long-term problems.
Patients’ experiences with GPs and the perception of their condition influence the outcome of the consultations. Patients tend to view joint pain as a normal condition, and this may lead to the patient avoiding pain medications. Despite the pain and discomfort, they continue to live their lives. However, doctors must carefully manage these consultations, recognizing that these patients’ expectations may be affecting their pain perceptions.
