Joint Pain Specialist
Spine, Sports Medicine & Orthopedics in Valdosta, GA
Joint pain is extremely common, with nearly 25% of American adults experiencing severe joint pain due to arthritis. Joint pain is often accompanied by stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion, making even simple activities difficult. If left untreated, joint pain can become disabling. The experienced team at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates helps patients overcome joint pain and return to an active lifestyle. Call the Valdosta, Georgia, office or book an appointment online today.
What Causes Joint Pain?
Joint Pain Q&A
Joint pain can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of joint pain. This degenerative condition occurs when hyaline cartilage—the smooth cartilage that cushions the ends of bones—breaks down over time. As the cartilage wears away, bones and exposed nerve endings rub together, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition that causes the synovial lining of the joint to swell. Over time, this inflammation can lead to bone erosion, joint deformity, and chronic joint pain.
Infection
Infections within a joint can damage surrounding bone and tissue, leading to significant pain, swelling, and limited movement.
Mechanical issues
Problems involving ligaments, tendons, or muscles can prevent joints—such as the hip or knee—from functioning properly. These mechanical issues often lead to joint instability, abnormal movement patterns, and pain.
Other conditions that may cause joint pain include bone dislocation, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, gout, fibromyalgia, and bursitis.
When Should I See an Orthopedic Specialist About Joint Pain?
Joint pain does not always require surgery. Many patients find relief through non-surgical treatment options.
Conservative therapy
In many cases, conservative care such as rest, physical therapy, bracing, and oral medications can significantly reduce joint pain and improve function. Additional therapies such as shockwave therapy or electrical stimulation may also be beneficial for certain types of joint pain.
Injections
If conservative treatments are not effective, the team at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain for several months. Another option is viscosupplementation, or joint lubrication injections, which may help improve joint movement and delay the need for surgery.
Surgery
When joint pain is caused by severe damage, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options include arthroscopic surgery to repair damage or remove painful tissue, as well as joint replacement surgery to restore function with an artificial joint.
Valdosta Orthopedic Associates offers comprehensive joint pain treatment, including outpatient surgical procedures, all within their on-site facility.
Mako® Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery
How it Works
Mako is an advanced option for patients with painful arthritis of the knee or hip.
Scan
Your journey begins with a CT scan, which allows your surgeon to gain a detailed understanding of your unique anatomy.
Plan
The CT scan is used to create a 3D model of your joint. This personalized model enables your surgeon to develop a customized surgical plan designed specifically for your anatomy.
Make Can
During surgery, your orthopedic surgeon follows the personalized plan while preparing the bone for implant placement. The surgeon guides Mako’s robotic arm within predefined boundaries, with AccuStop™ technology helping ensure accuracy and precision based on the preoperative plan.
It’s important to understand that the procedure is always performed by an orthopedic surgeon. Mako does not perform surgery independently, make decisions on its own, or move without surgeon guidance. The system also allows your surgeon to make real-time adjustments during the procedure as needed.
Find Relief from Joint Pain
Learn how effective joint pain relief can be with personalized orthopedic care. Call Valdosta Orthopedic Associates or book an appointment online today.
