Joint Pain

About 1 in 4 adults in the United States has arthritis, a leading cause of joint pain. If you’re bothered by stiff, aching, or painful joints, see Robert H. Cho, MD, with offices in Beverly Hills and the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. He finds the source of joint discomfort to ease your pain and optimize mobility. Schedule an appointment with orthopedic surgeon Robert Cho, MD, by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is joint pain?

Joint pain is discomfort in one or more joints, which connect bones together. Joints consist of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage in addition to bones. 

You have joints in your:

• Ankles
• Knees
• Hips
• Shoulders
• Elbows
• Wrists
• Spine
• Fingers
• Toes

Treatment with Dr. Cho offers lasting joint pain relief and reduces the risk of complications.

What are the symptoms of joint problems?

Joint pain may appear as:

• Sharp pain
• Aching
• Soreness
• Stiffness 
• Swelling
• Burning
• Throbbing
• Grating, snapping, grinding, or clicking sounds
• Decreased range of motion
• Warmth
• Redness
• Numbness
• Reduced mobility 

You might have a difficult time moving around, staying active, or enjoying your favorite daily activities because of joint pain. This pain could worsen over time when left untreated. See Dr. Cho at the first sign of a problem. 

What may increase the risk of joint pain?

Joint pain risk factors include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Gout 
• Tendonitis
• Bone spurs
• Bursitis
• Fractures
• Overuse
• Previous joint injury
• Age-related wear
• Carrying excess weight
• Sprains and strains
• Fibromyalgia
• Family history of arthritis or joint pain

Dr. Cho finds the cause of your pain and tailors a treatment that may consist of nonsurgical or surgical options. 

How is joint pain diagnosed?

Dr. Cho finds the cause of joint discomfort by discussing your symptoms and medical history, completing a physical exam, and ordering diagnostic tests. You might need blood, urine, or joint fluid tests and imaging procedures (X-rays, an MRI, ultrasound, or CT scanning).

How is joint pain treated?

Your customized joint pain treatment plan may consist of:

• Physical therapy
• Altering physical activity
• Bracing
• Ice, rest, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Heat therapy
• Healthy weight management 
• Dietary supplements
• Supportive aids
• Medications
• Injections
• Surgery

Surgical joint pain options include joint fusion, joint repair, and joint replacement. Dr. Cho offers surgery in severe cases, but you might be able to treat the cause of joint discomfort using nonsurgical methods.

It’s helpful to eat a balanced diet, minimize stress, stay active, and get enough sleep. Avoid smoking and limit or avoid alcohol. 

Experience joint pain relief with Robert H. Cho, MD, by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.