Understanding Arthritis & Joint Pain
Joint pain can have many causes, including arthritis, prior injury, inflammation, tendon problems, and cartilage damage. A stepwise evaluation helps match treatment to the diagnosis and your goals.
Common Causes & Treatment Paths
“Joint pain” is a symptom rather than a single diagnosis. Examination and imaging help determine whether arthritis or another condition is responsible.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Cartilage loss in the knee can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty with walking or stairs. Symptoms and X-rays help guide a stepwise treatment plan.
Shoulder Arthritis
Arthritis of the shoulder may cause deep pain, grinding, stiffness, night discomfort, and loss of motion that affects reaching and lifting.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
A prior fracture, ligament injury, dislocation, or cartilage injury can change joint mechanics and contribute to arthritis years later.
Nonsurgical Care
Activity modification, exercise and physical therapy, weight management when relevant, medication, bracing, or injections may help selected patients manage symptoms.
Knee Replacement
Partial or total knee replacement may be considered when advanced arthritis causes substantial pain and disability despite appropriate nonsurgical treatment.
Shoulder Replacement
Anatomic or reverse shoulder replacement may be considered for selected patients with advanced joint damage, pain, and loss of function.
Evaluation
Evaluation begins with the location, duration, and pattern of pain; its effect on daily life; prior injuries and treatment; and an examination of motion, strength, alignment, and stability. X-rays are often useful, with other testing added when needed.
Treatment Options
Care is individualized and often begins nonsurgically. If symptoms remain severe and imaging shows advanced joint damage, replacement or another procedure may be discussed after reviewing health, expectations, benefits, and risks.
Additional Patient Education
These independent resources from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons provide further general information.
This information is for general educational purposes and does not replace an evaluation or individualized medical advice.