Most often, joint pain is just taken as a simple symptom of aging. But that doesn’t mean that you should never go to the doctor for joint pain. There are situations for which you need to seek the pain doctor’s help.

If you are wondering when you should see a doctor while dealing with your joint pain, read on.

• Deformity
If your joint pain is accompanied by some deformity, it is time to see a doctor. A physical deformity indicates a serious problem which wouldn’t resolve itself. Some examples are oddly facing fingers and toes, and bent elbows and knees.

• Severe, intense Pain
Experiencing unbearable pain all through the day shows you’re suffering from a serious health concern and should see a doctor immediately.

• Excessive Swelling
Excessive swelling in and around a joint is something that needs immediate attention of a doctor.

• Loss of Function
If your joints prevent you from engaging inactivities that could earlier do, it is a sign of a problem that requires treatment by a joint pain doctor. You can’t treat non-functioning joints on your own.

Signs you can handle joint pain at home

In some cases, you may be able to handle your joint pain on your own. Here are some examples.

• Light swelling in the joints occurs due to inflammation.
• Reddened Skin around a joint. Reddened skin is a concern only when accompanied by other serious symptoms like swelling, extreme pain, fevers, etc.
• Mild Pain can be treated with ice packs, heat pads, and stretching.

Joint Diseases

A chronic joint disease requires you to see a doctor for joint pain. Common joint diseases include –
Arthritis – A common joint disease in which the joints become inflamed. This typically causes severe pain, swelling, loss of function and motion. Arthritis may be caused due to age-related wear and tear, overuse, a direct injury, and more.

Bursitis – In bursitis, the bursae (fluid-filled cushions which protect the joints) become inflamed. Bursitis is often caused due to repetitive activity. A doctor can design a treatment plan to relieve pain in the joints.

Here are a few things you can do to prevent serious joint problems –

1. Regular exercise to build muscle and lose weight and take pressure off joints
2. Adequate warm up before exercise
3. Consume a balanced diet
4. Be mindful of your posture
5. Break prolonged sitting with breaks in which you can stretch and move around

If you or a loved one is suffering from joint pain, see a pain doctor right away.

To know more about stem cell treatment or therapy in Norcross, GA, call one of leading pain management clinics, Atlanta Innovative Medicine at 770-416-9995.