When you have joint pain, it becomes top of mind every time you move. It doesn’t matter if it’s your knee, elbow, hip, or shoulder. Move, and there’s pain. It limits your ability to participate in sports, to exercise, play with your children or grandchildren, and it interferes with just plain everyday activities. So, what is the tipping point of joint pain, and when is it time to see a specialist?
The Pain Is Getting Worse
When we begin to have discomfort playing golf or just moving around, many people take OTC meds, rest the painful joint, and hope for the best. Sometimes that works, but if the pain is coming from osteoarthritis, it will only continue to get worse.
Once your pain gets more intense, it is time to schedule an appointment with a joint specialist for professional treatment.
You Develop Swelling
When you develop swelling in a joint accompanied by the pain, something is wrong and needs attention. If the joint becomes warm to the touch or gets red, don’t wait to make an appointment with OrthoNY. It could be any number of issues concerning the bursa, ligaments, tendons, or cartilage.
Your Joint Looks Deformed
Even if you haven’t been in a traumatic accident, some joints can become deformed. Deformity of a joint can occur with disease or injury to any part of the joint. Some of the diseases include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
When Your Home Treatments Don’t Work
There are those who prefer to “grin and bear it” when it comes to joint pain. They will continuously pop OTC meds, plus perform the RICE method consisting of rest, ice, compression, and elevation. You may get some temporary relief, but if you find yourself repeating these steps over and over, it’s time for some alternative treatments. Only a specialist can give you more long lasting pain relief.
Joint Pain That Keeps You From Enjoying Life
If you love to play golf, softball, tennis, or just want to be able to walk your dog without pain, why wait another day to seek treatment? There is no reason to give up what you like to do. Get back to enjoying the activities you love, and contact a joint specialist.
Contact OrthoNY at (518) 489-2663, or request an appointment online, for professional treatment if your joint pain is keeping you from enjoying life.