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Whether it’s caused by an injury or a medical condition, joint pain is something that millions of Americans suffer from every single day. If you are seeking relief for your joint pain, here are some things you can try:

Self-Treatment

• Over-the-counter pain relievers. Medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. However, taking too much of these is bad for your liver, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s dosage recommendations.

• Ice and heat. Ice (cryotherapy) and heat (thermotherapy) are both effective pain relievers, but only when used correctly. Click here to learn more about when you should use each option.

• Exercise. It’s counter-intuitive, but exercising can actually relieve your joint pain. For best results, stick to low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling.

Professional Treatment

• Physical Therapy. Sometimes, your joint pain is caused by weaknesses in the muscles around the joint. Working with a physical therapist can correct these muscular deficiencies and eliminate your pain for good.

• Injections. Sometimes, your pain may be so severe that your doctor recommends a steroid injections. These are injected directly into the joint every 3-4 months.

• Surgery. When all else fails, surgery may be your best option. Surgery options can vary, but they generally involve the repair, removal, or replacement of the affected joint.

When self-treatment options are no longer relieving your joint pain, it’s time to turn to the professionals. Residents of Fairfield County can trust OSG with all of their orthopedic needs. As southern Connecticut’s largest and most experienced orthopedic practice, we can fix virtually every bone and joint in your body. Request an appointment online or give us a call at (203) 337-2600.