Joint Pain

Joint pain (also called arthralgia) is any discomfort that occurs in a joint—the place where two or more bones connect. Some people feel only mild joint pain when they move; others are immobilized by severe pain and forced to give up their regular activities.

The good news is that today there are many different options for treating joint pain in every part of the body. Some are nonsurgical, some involve surgery—and all are available through the expert team of specialists at Adventist Health Orthopedic Clinic.

What causes joint pain?

Joint pain can be caused by a wide range of injuries or conditions, including:

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Bursitis (inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding muscles and bones)
Crystals in the joint: gout, usually found in the big toe, and CPPD arthritis (called pseudogout)
Damage to the cartilage under the kneecap (chondromalacia patella)
Infections caused by viruses
Injury, such as a fracture
Osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis)
Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
Strains and sprains from overuse
Tendinitis (inflammation of a tendon)

How is joint pain treated?

The first step in treating joint pain is to determine its root cause. Your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history, along with a physical examination. Treatments may include:

Medications including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants to relieve spasms, antidepressants and anti-seizure medications that interfere with pain signals, topical creams and steroid injections
Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the joint, stabilize it and improve your range of motion
Bracing and wrapping to protect the joint
RICE (Rest, Icing, Compression and Elevation)
Joint replacement surgery

Want to learn more about treatments for joint pain at Adventist Health Orthopedic Clinic?

Simply call us to schedule an appointment at the location that’s most convenient for you at Portland: (503) 261-6961.