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When joint pain affects your mobility, it can affect every area of your life. But you don’t have to suffer through it. If you’re struggling with a joint injury or chronic joint pain, Novant Health’s orthopedic experts are here to help. Contact us today at 1-833-751-6027 to schedule a consultation — and get back to your normal routine now.
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Joint health guides
Millions of adults rely on taking pain-killers such as Aspirin frequently to help manage ongoing joint or bone pains. Our guides will provide you with information on common symptoms and alternative treatment options – whether you feel it in your knees, hips, shoulders, foot & ankle or elsewhere.
How we can provide remarkable care for your joint pain
Expert joint care
Whether you have an injury or a chronic condition like osteoporosis, a Novant Health orthopedic & sports medicine specialist can help you move forward with targeted pain management and a treatment plan that addresses what’s causing your symptoms.
What can I do to improve my overall joint health?
Many lifestyle factors can impact joint health. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints, including the knees and back. The Arthritis Foundation recommends avoiding smoking, wearing supportive shoes, and maintaining a balanced diet high in omega-3 fatty acids. If you have joint health concerns, see your doctor.
What are common signs of a joint health issue?
It’s time to see a doctor if you’re experiencing joint pain, stiffness or reduced range of motion in any of your joints. Don’t wait until your pain is severe; catching potential issues early on can help you avoid more serious joint health issues later in life.
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Discover joint health specialists at Novant Health
Explore education history, biographies and more
Schedule an appointmentHip or knee replacement surgery can provide long-term pain relief, even when other treatments can’t. Whenever possible, Novant Health orthopedic & sports medicine surgeons use minimally invasive surgical techniques to minimize scarring and shorten recovery time. examine your symptoms, family history and possible causes to address your concerns.
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Find a joint replacement specialist in your area
Explore specialties, biographies, office locations and more
Find a doctorDoes a family history of arthritis increase the likelihood that I have it or will get it?
Yes, arthritis risk can have a genetic component, so having one or more family members with arthritis can increase your risk of getting it at some point in your life.
What’s the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the more common type. It’s commonly caused by injury, overuse and genetic factors that affect cartilage production. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which a person’s immune system damages joint tissue, causing chronic inflammation and swelling.
Can young people get arthritis?
Yes. While risk increases with age, a person of any age can get arthritis. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include weight, injury and genetics. Risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis are less clear, but genetics and lifestyle factors like smoking are thought to play a role.
What are common symptoms of arthritis?
Common signs include pain, stiffness or swelling in joints. Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including those in the back, hands, knees, neck or wrist. People with arthritis may experience pain during activity or when resting.
When should I see a doctor about arthritis symptoms?
See a doctor when you notice arthritis symptoms for the first time, especially if joint pain or swelling are impacting your mobility. You should also see your doctor if your symptoms change or get worse.
What is tendonitis?
Tendonitis is when a tendon is inflamed. It can be caused by strain, overuse, injury or even too much exercise.
Where does it occur?
Tendonitis can occur in any tendon in the body but the most common areas are the base of the thumb, elbow, shoulder, knee and achilles tendon.
What are the symptoms?
Pain in the tendon when moved, swelling and a grating feeling when moved.
When should you see a doctor?
See your doctor if your signs and symptoms persist and interfere with your daily activities for more than a few days.
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Managing arthritis
Learn how to keep your symptoms in check with our guide, “Overcoming Joint Pain and Arthritis.
What are the most common types of joint-related sports injuries?
Many common sports injuries involve the largest joint in your body, knees! These include runner’s knee (pain near the kneecap), tearing in the meniscus (cartilage that cushions knee bones), and dislocated kneecap(s). Fractures and dislocations are also common in the shoulders, elbows, and wrists. Shin splints are common for athletes who run on hard surfaces or fail to stretch adequately before exercising.
Can a sports injury have long-term effects on joint health?
Yes, some injuries can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis in the damaged joints. This is called post-traumatic arthritis, and it can happen in any joint.
How should I care for a sports injury until I can see a doctor?
Start with RICE: rest, ice, compression and elevation. Above all, avoid strenuous activity involving the injured joint until you can consult with a joint health expert. Continuing to exercise through an injury or after you realize you’re injured can make the injury more severe and extend recovery time.
When should I see a doctor about a sports injury?
See a doctor if your discomfort continues after you’ve rested and treated the injury. You should also call your doctor if your pain is severe or gets worse or if swelling doesn’t heal. If you have a chronic joint condition, regular physical exams can identify potential concerns before they become severe.
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Common sports injuries guide
Learn how to treat common sports injuries at home and when to seek medical help.
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- Offering customized physical therapy programs
- Providing advanced sports performance therapy
*Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital
Orthopedic care at Novant Health
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