Joint Pain
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Newhope Joint and Spine
Phuong Q. Tien, MD
Pain Management located in Westminster, CA
Experienced in the latest techniques for managing pain, Phuong Q. Tien, MD, offers comprehensive care for chronic joint pain caused by arthritis or age-related joint degeneration. At Newhope Joint and Spine in Westminster, California, Dr. Tien uses state-of-the-art diagnostics to uncover the cause of your pain. She customizes care plans that focus on noninvasive or minimally invasive techniques to keep pain well-controlled and return you to an active, healthy lifestyle. Learn more about available treatments for joint pain by calling Newhope Joint and Spine or by booking online today.
Joint Pain Q & A
What causes joint pain?
Joint pain is a common side effect of the natural aging process. As you get older, your joints begin to break down and the protective cartilage at the ends of joint bones wears away. This results in your bones rubbing together, causing friction, persistent pain, and limited mobility.
You may also develop joint pain after a traumatic injury from an auto accident or a direct hit in sports. Chronic joint pain can also be caused by underlying medical issues like:
- Arthritis
- Fractures
- Inflammation
- Lyme disease
- Thyroid disorders
Chronic joint pain is also a common side effect of instability in your joints that leads to frequent dislocations, especially in the joints of the shoulders, hips, or knees.
How is joint pain diagnosed?
Diagnosing joint pain involves a physical exam of the affected joint. Dr. Tien also reviews your personal and family medical history to determine if underlying health issues, like arthritis, may be a risk factor for your pain.
Dr. Tien offers on-site diagnostics, including imaging tests, that highlight the inner structures of your joint. She may order tests like:
- MRI
- X-rays
- CT scan
Blood work may be necessary to rule out underlying infections or health issues that cause chronic inflammation.
In some cases, minimally invasive surgery may be necessary to explore the inner parts of your joint to assess the severity of joint damage.
How is joint pain treated?
Dr. Tien tailors your joint pain treatment to your specific needs, based on your condition and the intensity of your pain. To alleviate inflammation and pain, she may initially recommend medications and physical therapy. These treatments can also be helpful in improving your range of motion and mobility.
When oral medicines aren’t enough to keep you comfortable and active, Dr. Tien can provide injectable medications, like an anesthetic and anti-inflammatories, to control pain.
If your joint is seriously damaged by a traumatic injury or degenerative disease, you may need joint replacement surgery. Dr. Tien can determine whether you’re a good candidate for this type of surgery based on your medical history and your existing health.
To find out more about pain management options for chronic joint pain, schedule a consultation at Newhope Joint and Spine today by phone or using the online booking feature.
