Request an Appointment

Joint Pain

Joint pain is a common condition that affects millions of people and can significantly impact daily life. It refers to discomfort, soreness, or inflammation in any part of a joint, including the cartilage, bone, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Joint pain can range from mild to severe and may affect one or multiple joints at the same time. While it is often linked to aging, joint pain can also result from injury, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for joint pain can help patients manage their discomfort and maintain an active lifestyle.

What Causes Joint Pain?

Joint pain can result from a variety of underlying issues, including:

  • Arthritis: Osteoarthritis (caused by wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition) are two of the most common causes of joint pain.
  • Injury: Sprains, strains, and fractures can cause joint pain, swelling, and instability.
  • Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often due to repetitive motion or overuse, can lead to joint pain.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints can result in localized pain.
  • Gout: A type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, leading to sudden and severe pain.
  • Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can cause joint inflammation and pain.
  • Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus and psoriatic arthritis can cause the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue.
  • Excess Weight: Carrying extra weight increases stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine, contributing to joint degeneration and pain.

Symptoms of Joint Pain

The symptoms of joint pain can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain and Stiffness: Discomfort that may be constant or worsen with movement or activity.
  • Swelling and Tenderness: Inflammation around the joint may cause it to feel warm and sensitive to touch.
  • Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty bending, extending, or rotating the joint due to pain or stiffness.
  • Clicking or Popping Sounds: Joints may make noises when moving due to cartilage breakdown or misalignment.
  • Weakness or Instability: Loss of strength or a feeling that the joint might give out during movement.
  • Redness and Warmth: Inflamed joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch.

Diagnosing Joint Pain

At Ascent Pain, diagnosing joint pain begins with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination. Your pain specialist will assess the affected joint’s range of motion, strength, and overall function. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans may be used to identify damage to the bones, cartilage, or soft tissues. In some cases, blood tests or joint fluid analysis may be recommended to check for signs of infection or autoimmune disease.

Treatment Options for Joint Pain

The goal of treating joint pain is to relieve discomfort, improve joint function, and prevent further damage. At Ascent Pain, we offer a variety of non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to help patients manage joint pain effectively, including:

  • Corticosteroid Injections: Anti-inflammatory medication is injected directly into the affected joint to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Viscosupplementation: A gel-like substance is injected into the joint to improve lubrication and cushioning, often used for knee osteoarthritis.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP uses the patient’s own concentrated platelets to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
  • Nerve Blocks: Medication is injected near the affected nerve to block pain signals and provide relief.
  • Radiofrequency Denervation: Heat is used to disable the nerves transmitting pain signals from the joint.
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, procedures such as arthroscopy or joint replacement may be recommended to restore joint function.

Get Relief from Joint Pain Today

If you’re struggling with joint pain, Ascent Pain can help you find relief. Our experienced pain specialists will create a personalized treatment plan designed to target the source of your discomfort and restore your mobility. Don’t let joint pain keep you from living fully—schedule a consultation today.

Call Ascent Pain at (504) 249-7576 or fill out our online form to request an appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.