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Your Expert Guide to Joint Health & Pain Relief

Evidence-based information from leading medical institutions. Understand your pain, explore treatments, and get AI-powered guidance for lasting relief.

54M+
Americans with arthritis
350M
Affected globally
$304B
Annual US healthcare cost
Knee joint pain illustration

Where Does It Hurt?

Select your pain area to find targeted information, exercises, and treatment options.

Common Joint Conditions

Different conditions require different approaches. Learn about causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

The most common form of arthritis, affecting 32+ million Americans. Caused by cartilage breakdown leading to bone-on-bone friction, pain, and stiffness. When cartilage loss is severe and conservative treatments no longer provide relief, knee replacement surgery may restore mobility and quality of life.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks joint linings. Often affects hands, wrists, and knees symmetrically. Early diagnosis by a rheumatologist is crucial for preventing irreversible joint damage.

Gout

Caused by uric acid crystal buildup, typically affecting the big toe first. Causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness.

Treatment Options

Bursitis

Inflammation of bursae—small fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints. Common in shoulders, elbows, and hips from repetitive motion.

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Psoriatic Arthritis

Affects some people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Can affect any joint. Biologics are often effective.

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Tendinitis

Inflammation of tendons connecting muscle to bone. Common in rotator cuff, Achilles, and elbow. Rest, ice, and PT usually help.

Self-Care Tips

Latest from Trusted Sources

Curated articles from leading medical institutions and healthcare organizations.

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Treatment Approaches

From lifestyle changes to medical interventions—evidence-based options for managing joint pain.

1

Weight Management

Every pound of body weight equals 4 pounds of pressure on knees. Losing 10-15 lbs significantly reduces joint stress.

2

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Focus on fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, olive oil. Omega-3s have proven anti-inflammatory benefits.

3

Hot & Cold Therapy

Heat relaxes muscles for stiffness. Cold reduces inflammation and numbs acute pain. Apply 15-20 minutes.

4

Low-Impact Exercise

Swimming, walking, cycling strengthen supporting muscles without stressing joints. "Motion is lotion."

5

Quality Sleep

7-9 hours allows tissue repair. Use supportive pillows and maintain consistent sleep schedule.

6

Assistive Devices

Canes, braces, shoe inserts reduce joint stress. A physical therapist can recommend appropriate devices.

1

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Effective for mild-moderate pain. Easier on stomach than NSAIDs. Follow dosing limits to protect liver.

2

NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve)

Reduce pain AND inflammation. Take with food; not for long-term daily use without doctor guidance.

3

Topical Treatments

Voltaren gel (diclofenac) is FDA-approved for arthritis. Also Biofreeze, Aspercreme. Fewer systemic side effects.

4

DMARDs & Biologics

For inflammatory arthritis (RA, PsA). Disease-modifying drugs slow joint damage and require monitoring. Since these medications can be expensive, comparing prices across pharmacies may significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

5

Supplements

Glucosamine/chondroitin may help some (takes weeks). Fish oil, turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties.

6

Prescription Pain Meds

Tramadol or other options for severe pain when OTC fails. Used short-term with doctor supervision.

1

Physical Therapy

Gold standard for joint rehab. Strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, teaches proper movement patterns.

2

Corticosteroid Injections

Powerful anti-inflammatory injections provide weeks to months of relief. Limited to 3-4 per year per joint.

3

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Viscosupplementation adds lubricant to joints. Effects can last 6 months. Insurance coverage varies.

4

PRP Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma from your blood may promote healing. Promising research but not yet standard of care.

5

Acupuncture

May help some people with chronic pain. Low risk when done by licensed practitioner.

6

Occupational Therapy

Learns joint-protective techniques for daily activities. Essential for hand/wrist arthritis.

1

Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive camera surgery. Repairs meniscus tears, removes loose bodies. Quick recovery.

2

Total Joint Replacement

Replaces damaged joint surfaces with implants. Hip replacement procedures are highly successful with 90%+ of implants lasting 15-20 years.

3

Partial Knee Replacement

Resurfaces only damaged compartment. Preserves healthy bone. Faster recovery than total knee.

4

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Mako and other systems use 3D imaging for precision. Studies show better outcomes, faster recovery.

5

Joint Fusion

Fuses bones together eliminating painful motion. Used for ankles, wrists, spine when replacement isn't option.

6

Osteotomy

Reshapes bone to redistribute weight away from damaged area. Can delay joint replacement in younger patients.

OTC Options That Work

Evidence-based products recommended by healthcare providers.

Knee brace Joint Support

Knee Braces

Stabilizing braces for support and protection during daily activities.

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Ice therapy Pain Relief

Ice Therapy

Cold therapy packs for reducing swelling and pain.

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Joint supplements Supplement

Glucosamine + Chondroitin

May help cartilage health. Takes weeks to work.

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Walking aids Mobility

Walking Aids

Walkers, canes, and mobility aids for safe movement.

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Find a Joint Pain Specialist

Search board-certified specialists in orthopedics, rheumatology, and sports medicine near you.

Joint Pain Assessment

Answer these questions to understand your joint pain and get personalized recommendations.

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