Is Chronic Joint Pain Ruining Your Life?
Pain-free joints become invaluable with age. Adults can move around freely, participate in sports and social activities, and have a better quality of life. Yet, this is not the case for millions of American adults. Chronic joint pain, especially in the major joints like knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, and ankles, is frustrating. If left untreated, the condition will likely worsen, leading to limited mobility, rising medical costs, and an increased risk of severe injury. When pain medication fails, orthopedic treatment can be a shining light in the quest for pain-free mobility.
Understanding your joint pain
The body contains numerous joints, the point where 2 bones meet, allowing for dynamic movement. Cartilage, synovial fluid, and other vital components help the joint to move smoothly without friction. Over time, however, joint function can decline, leading to pain. Osteoarthritis, the wear and tear of bone and cartilage, is perhaps the biggest cause of joint pain. The resulting inflammation becomes chronic, leading to pain and stiffness. Joint overuse due to work or sports can lead to inflamed tendons and damaged cartilage, causing joint pain. Current injuries or autoimmune conditions are other possible causes. Once pain, stiffness, swelling, and instability occur and do not subside, consider speaking with an orthopedic specialist. This joint expert can provide treatment options to reduce pain and restore mobility.
Let's get started on orthopedic treatment
An orthopedic specialist will perform physical tests, x-rays, and additional imaging scans to determine the potential cause of joint pain. These detailed assessments can help to formulate an appropriate treatment plan. Specialists will start with non-surgical treatment first, suggesting physical therapy and pain management. Physical therapy will strengthen the joint and surrounding muscles to reduce pain and improve mobility. More potent pain management options like corticosteroid injections can provide extended relief. These, along with occupational therapy, can provide fast results.
Orthopedic surgery may be best
If non-surgical methods fail to improve symptoms, orthopedic specialists, like surgeons, may recommend advanced treatment. Surgical interventions may be necessary, especially if there is significant damage to the joint. The fastest, most effective strategy is arthroscopy, a procedure that uses a small incision and a scope to view and assess the joint. The surgeon can make an additional incision to clean up cartilage, remove bone spurs, or repair potential damage to tendons or ligaments. Some patients may decide on a total joint replacement procedure. This option removes the damaged bone and cartilage and installs a prosthesis. This joint made of metal or ceramic reduces pain while imitating the mechanics of the joint, providing improved mobility. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) can be used for joint replacement.
A future with less pain is possible
The type of orthopedic treatment may require extensive recovery for several months, including physical therapy. Follow the guidance of the medical team for the best results. In time, moving becomes easier as joint pain reduces significantly. The orthopedic team will try non-surgical options first. If these fail, the surgical strategies mentioned are effective. The minimally invasive nature also means fewer scars, less postoperative pain, and a faster return to activities. Joint pain can be frustrating, especially for individuals with an active life. Take the time to receive treatment and heal as pain-free mobility is possible.
