Don't Let Joint Pain Spook You

Don't Let Joint Pain Spook You

Raising awareness of orthopedic treatment options during Bone & Joint Action Week

Joint pain can be scary. It can take the enjoyment out of favorite activities and make everyday life more difficult. In fact, joint pain is just one of many issues affecting the bones, joints, and muscles, which together are among the leading causes of disability worldwide.

However, for many people, the biggest concern isn't the limitations. It's the fear of what treatment might involve.

"Many people think that seeing someone in orthopedics automatically means getting surgery," said Dr. Lee Kenyon, Orthopedic Sports Medicine Physician at Aspirus Health. "But, especially nowadays, that's often not the case."

During Bone & Joint Action Week (Oct. 12-20), Dr. Kenyon wants people living with joint pain to know they have options. In recent years, orthopedic care has evolved significantly, expanding both diagnostic tools and treatments.

"We have lots of procedures now that weren't available five or 10 years ago," Dr. Kenyon said. "That means we're able to offer a whole menu of options, many of which are non-surgical." This includes things like physical therapy, bracing, activity modifications, medications, injections, and other minimally invasive approaches designed to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Advances in ultrasound technology are also helping identify the source of pain more accurately. Musculoskeletal ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. Unlike traditional imaging, which captures a single moment in time, ultrasound allows specialists to evaluate these structures while patients are moving. This can help pinpoint the source of discomfort, lead to more precise diagnoses, and help providers develop personalized treatment plans.

For some superficial structures such as tendons and ligaments, musculoskeletal ultrasound can provide image resolution that is comparable to or even better than MRI. Plus, unlike some imaging studies that require scheduling and follow-up review, real-time data is provided during an office visit.

These advances help orthopedic specialists to better diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. "Basically, anything related to the shoulders, wrists, hands, knees, or hips," Dr. Kenyon said. Common conditions include arthritis, overuse injuries, tendon injuries, and tendinitis.

The sooner these issues are identified, the sooner treatment can begin and recovery can start.

Early treatment can often prevent minor issues from becoming more serious problems. Dr. Kenyon recommends scheduling an evaluation if:

• Pain is not improving with rest
• Symptoms worsen over time
• Pain is disrupting sleep
• A joint becomes swollen or red
• Pain is limiting activities
• There is weakness, instability, or reduced mobility

This Halloween season, don't let fear of treatment haunt the decision to seek care. Today's orthopedic specialists have more tools than ever to help people find relief, improve mobility, and get back to the activities they love.

If joint pain is limiting your daily activities or keeping you from the hobbies you enjoy, talk with a primary care provider or orthopedic specialist. To learn more or find a provider near you, visit aspirus.org/orthopedics.

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