When to Seek Care for Joint Pain

Joint pain can often come and go, but if it’s prolonged, a specialist should be consulted. Dr. Stephanie Stephens, an orthopedic surgeon at Medical City Arlington, says there are three signs to look for. They are:

• Pain that lingers for more than a few days
• Pain that is associated with swelling, or catching and locking, or instability
• After experiencing a trauma, like slipping on the stairs, pain that just won’t go away

Here are some recommendations for the initial treatment of joint pain:

• Use ice for more acute pain
• Use heat for more chronic or muscle pain
• Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain reliever

If these recommendations don’t provide some relief for your pain, make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist.

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