Joint Pain

Joint pain is a common problem, affecting more than 70% of people 50 and older. If joint pain keeps you from your favorite activities, seek professional help. At Ogiso Health in Nashville, Tennessee, primary care physician Olatunde Oso, MD, MSPH, provides complete care for joint pain. After identifying the cause, he makes personalized treatment recommendations that stop the pain and prevent it from worsening. Call Ogiso Health today to schedule joint pain treatment, or book your visit online.

What is joint pain?

Joint pain is aching, discomfort, or stiffness that affects one or several joints –– areas where two or more bones meet. 

Almost everyone experiences joint pain occasionally because the joints are some of the most active parts of the body. This makes them susceptible to traumatic injuries and general wear-and-tear. 

What causes joint pain?

At Ogiso Health, Dr. Oso treats joint pain caused by:

• Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Bursitis
• Tendonitis
• Gout

Sometimes, joint pain occurs because of an injury, like a broken bone, a pulled muscle, or a ligament sprain.

When should I see a doctor for joint pain?

If you have joint pain lasting for more than a few days, make an appointment at Ogiso Health. That’s particularly true if the pain doesn’t improve with rest and interferes with your mobility and routine. Joint pain often worsens over time. Prompt intervention can prevent further damage and restore your mobility.

How is joint pain diagnosed?

Dr. Oso reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain started, what it feels like, and if activities, like exercise, make it worse.

Next, he examines your affected joint, checking for bruising, redness, and swelling. Dr. Oso assesses your joint’s range of motion, tests your reflexes, and gently presses your skin to identify sensitive spots. He also orders X-rays or an MRI to look at the bones and surrounding tissues.

How is joint pain treated?

At Ogiso Health, Dr. Oso takes an integrative, minimally invasive approach to treating joint pain. He could suggest:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Chiropractic adjustments
• Physical therapy
• Activity modification
• Wearing a cast or splint
• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Wearing compression garments
• Topical treatments to ease pain
• Nutritional supplements, like glucosamine
• Over-the-counter pain medication

Most people benefit from several treatments. Dr. Oso monitors your symptoms at regular checkups and adjusts your care plan as needed.

How can I prevent joint pain?

The easiest way to prevent joint pain is to live a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Oso recommends eating a nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. 

You must also take steps to protect your joints. For example, if you regularly use hand tools, take frequent breaks, and wear the necessary protective equipment. Likewise, warm up before exercise and cool down afterward.

Call Ogiso Health today to schedule joint pain treatment, or book your appointment online.