Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any of the body's joints. This common problem can range from mild to severe, coming on suddenly or slowly over time.
Causes
There are many potential causes of joint pain, including:
Symptoms
People with joint pain often experience:
The particular location and severity of joint pain provides clues as to the cause. For example, pain associated with osteoarthritis most often occurs in the hips, knees, hands, spine or neck. Meanwhile, rheumatoid arthritis impacts symmetrical pairs of joints.
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If you're struggling with stiffness, swelling, or chronic joint aches, the caring medical team at Balanced Hormone Clinic can help. We specialize in hormone optimization to reduce inflammation that contributes to arthritis and injuries. Our individualized treatment plans get to the root cause of your pain so you can get back to living your best life!
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Diagnosis
An accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. A doctor will perform a physical exam of the affected joint, review medical history, order imaging tests like x-rays or MRI scans, and analyze blood or fluid samples. They may also assess range of motion and refer the patient to a specialist such as a rheumatologist.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, slowing disease progression, and preventing deformity. Options may include:
By identifying the underlying cause and working closely with your doctor, you can find the right regimen to manage your joint pain. Early intervention offers the best outlook.