Non-Surgical Treatments for Joint Pain

The orthopedic team at MetroSouth Medical Center embraces non-surgical methods of treatment whenever possible.  They recognize that many patients with joint pain find relief and regain function without surgery.  To schedule an appointment with a joint pain specialist at MetroSouth Medical Center, call 708-489-7925.

In the early stages of joint pain, your doctor may prescribe medications, physical therapy, braces or cortisone injections to relieve the discomfort. Injections of a joint fluid supplement may also ease pain, and losing weight, restricting activities, doing special exercises and taking nutritional supplements called glucosamine and chondroitin could help. Non-surgical treatments for joint pain include:

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is an important aspect of treatment of almost all orthopedic conditions. Physical therapists use different techniques to increase strength, regain mobility, and help return patients to their pre-injury level of activity.
   
• Medication Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, commonly referred to as NSAIDs, are some of the most commonly prescribed medications, especially for patients with joint pain caused by problems such as arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. Examples include Motrin, Aleve, and Naprosyn.
   
• Injection Treatment: Cortisone is a powerful medication that treats inflammation, and inflammation is a common problem in patients with joint pain. Discuss with your doctor the possible benefits of a cortisone injection for your condition.
   
• Bracing: Braces and supports can help compensate for injured joint and can help support weak muscles. There are many types of braces and supports that can be purchased and it is important to understand the appropriate treatment in order to best help your condition.
   
• Orthotic Devices and Orthoses: Orthotic devices have been shown to be an effective approach in reducing joint pain in some patients. Your doctor may recommend this as part of your overall pain management treatment.
   
• Nutritional Supplementation: Chondroitin is a naturally-occurring substance believed to help the body maintain fluid and flexibility in the joints. Glucosamine may help develop and renew cartilage – the hard connective tissue found on bones near joints – and to keep it lubricated for movement. Not all uses for chondroitin and glucosamine have been approved by the FDA. Chondroitin and glucosamine should not be substituted for medications prescribed by your doctor. Because the government does not regulate manufacturers of supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine, you should buy them from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Before using chondroitin and glucosamine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, herbalist, or other healthcare provider. You may not be able to use chondroitin and glucosamine if you have diabetes, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia, allergies to certain drugs, if you are overweight, or if you are on a low-salt diet.

Do not take chondroitin and glucosamine without the advice of a healthcare provider if you are using insulin, a blood thinner such as anisindione (Miradon) or warfarin (Coumadin). Avoid taking chitosan (usually marketed as a weight-loss product), since chitosan can make it harder for your body to absorb chondroitin.