Joint Pain

What is joint pain?

Joint pain refers to any discomfort you experience in or around your joint. The pain may develop from any injury or disease that affects one or more of the components that make up your joint, which include bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. In addition to the discomfort, your joint pain may also affect function, making it difficult for you to carry out your daily tasks.

What causes joint pain?

Joint pain can develop from a variety of causes, including injuries, infections, or disease. However, joint pain is most often caused by inflammation within the joint, generally referred to as arthritis. 

Several types of arthritis cause joint pain, including:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis that develops due to the general wearing away of the cartilage in between your bones over time. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which your body’s immune cells attack the lining of your joint, leading to inflammation and pain. 

Psoriatic arthritis

If you have psoriasis, an immune-mediated skin condition that accelerates the growth of skin cells, you may be at risk of developing psoriatic arthritis.

Gout 

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints, which causes severe, unexpected pain, along with redness and swelling.

What happens during a joint pain evaluation?

The rheumatology experts at Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center take a holistic approach to patient care, focusing not only on your joint pain but on your overall health and wellness. During a joint pain evaluation, the team reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam while paying particular attention to the joint that is causing discomfort.

To determine the underlying cause of your joint pain, the team may request diagnostic testing, such as lab work, X-rays, MRI, ultrasound, or CT scan. 

How is joint pain treated?

The team at Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center develops individualized treatment plans for joint pain based on the underlying cause of your pain, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health. Your treatment plan may include anti-inflammatory medication, disease-specific medication, or physical therapy.

In addition to traditional medical treatments for joint pain, Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center also offers innovative therapies for the treatment of various types of joint pain, including infusions and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. 

For comprehensive care of your joint pain, contact Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center by phone or online today.