Joint pain can significantly impact your daily life, including exercise, work, social interactions, and sleep. If joint pain is hindering you, seeking help from a rheumatologist is recommended. Joint pain is just a symptom, rheumatologists specialize in identifying the underlying causes of joint pain and providing effective and safe treatments. Before visiting a rheumatologist, here are five important facts about joint pain:
Joint Pain Varies in Intensity
Joint pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that restricts mobility. The frequency and severity of your joint pain can assist your rheumatologist in determining its cause and finding appropriate treatment options.
Identifying the Cause is Crucial
While symptoms can be managed with medications and therapies, understanding the root cause of joint pain allows for long-term treatment. The cause of joint pain could be related to inflammation, also called inflammatory arthritis or could be degenerative arthritis. Degeneration of joint could result from factors such as injury, age related, other medical conditions, genetic risk, or congenital defects.
Preventive Measures Can Help
Taking proactive steps can reduce the severity of joint pain. Strengthening exercises, stretches, weight management, rest during flare-ups, and following an anti-inflammatory diet can all contribute to minimizing joint pain and inflammation.
Rheumatologists Provide Tailored Treatment
By evaluating your symptoms and diagnosing the underlying cause, rheumatologists can recommend suitable treatments that align with your goals and lifestyle. Options may include over-the-counter medication, supplements, dietary adjustments, exercise plans, steroid injections, prescription drugs, and other remedies.
Seek Medical Attention for Persistent Joint Pain
Occasional minor or temporary joint pain is common with age. However, if you experience frequent, chronic, or acute joint pain that significantly impacts your daily activities, it is crucial to consult a rheumatologist. They can provide proper evaluation and develop a personalized joint pain treatment plan.
If you are residing in Wake County, NC, and dealing with joint pain, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our rheumatologists at Empowered Arthritis and Rheumatology Center, PLLC. Our team evaluates your overall health, identify the underlying causes of your joint pain, and create a customized treatment plan to improve your quality of life. Don’t let joint pain control your life or limit your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your hobbies. Call or contact us online today to schedule an initial rheumatology evaluation.
