Managing Arthritis Pain: How Pain Clinics Help You Move Freely Again
Arthritis is a leading cause of chronic joint pain and disability, affecting over 50 million adults in the U.S. alone. Whether it’s osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriatic arthritis, the condition can lead to constant discomfort, stiffness, and loss of mobility—making everyday tasks difficult.
Thankfully, pain management clinics offer a wide range of treatments that go beyond temporary relief to help you regain control and live more comfortably.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of one or more joints. It’s not a single disease, but rather a broad term encompassing over 100 different types of joint-related conditions.
The most common forms include:
Osteoarthritis (OA) – “Wear-and-tear” arthritis caused by cartilage breakdown
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – An autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation
Psoriatic arthritis – Arthritis associated with psoriasis skin disease
Gout – Caused by uric acid buildup in the joints
Ankylosing spondylitis – Affects the spine and pelvis
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
Joint pain, especially during or after movement
Stiffness, often worse in the morning or after inactivity
Swelling and tenderness around the joints
Reduced range of motion
Grating or cracking sound during joint use (crepitus)
Fatigue and decreased activity levels
What Causes Arthritis?
The causes of arthritis vary by type, but common risk factors include:
Age – Risk increases with age
Genetics – Family history plays a major role
Joint injury or overuse
Obesity – Extra weight adds stress to weight-bearing joints
Autoimmune disorders – Such as in RA and lupus
Diagnosis and Evaluation
At a pain management clinic, arthritis diagnosis involves:
Physical exam to check joint function and inflammation
X-rays or MRI to assess bone and cartilage damage
Blood tests to detect markers of autoimmune disease (RA, lupus)
Joint aspiration to rule out infection or gout
Pain Management Strategies for Arthritis
Effective arthritis treatment requires personalized care aimed at reducing pain, preserving joint function, and improving quality of life.
1. Medications
NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain and inflammation
Corticosteroid injections for targeted relief
DMARDs (e.g., methotrexate) for autoimmune types
Topical creams like capsaicin or diclofenac
2. Physical Therapy
Joint-friendly exercises to improve strength and flexibility
Assistive devices or bracing to support joint function
3. Interventional Procedures
Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid injections for OA)
Radiofrequency ablation for nerve-related joint pain
Regenerative medicine (PRP or stem cell therapy in some clinics)
4. Lifestyle & Home Therapies
Weight loss to reduce joint strain
Heat and cold therapy
Anti-inflammatory diet (rich in omega-3s, low in processed foods)
When to See a Pain Specialist
If arthritis pain is affecting your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy daily life, it’s time to visit a pain management specialist. They offer advanced treatments that go beyond what primary care can provide.
Final Thoughts
Living with arthritis doesn’t mean living in constant pain. With the help of a pain management clinic, you can find targeted treatments that ease joint discomfort, preserve mobility, and help you stay active.
For more information about our clinic, medical professionals, and treatment options, please visit our main website.