Swollen Joint Specialist in Lexington, KY

What Causes Painful, Swollen, or Injured Joints?

Various injuries and conditions can cause joint discomfort. These are sometimes acute and result from broken bones, viral infection, or a sprain. Often, however, joint discomfort can present more subtly and originate from chronic conditions such as

• Rheumatoid arthritis: A chronic disease that causes joint pain, swelling, and deformity
• Gout: A condition where acidic crystals collect in your joints, resulting in severe pain and swelling
• Osteoarthritis: The most common form of arthritis, where your cartilage wears away, leading to painful, stiff joints
• Bursitis: An overuse injury resulting in pain and swelling

What is the Treatment for Joint Pain and Swelling?

There are many ways to manage joint pain and swelling. Often, it can be treated at home with simple methods such as anti-inflammatory medications, rest, heat, or topical medication. However, if your pain and swelling don't respond to these treatments, medical intervention may be required. The orthopedic specialists at our BGONow walk-in clinics can assess your injury and recommend further treatment options such as a brace, cane, physical therapy, or prescription painkillers. In severe cases, total joint replacement may be needed.

When Should I Visit an Orthopedic Urgent Care Walk-in Clinic?

Knowing when your joint discomfort requires a clinic visit can be hard. For patients with chronic conditions, the pain becomes normalized, but no level of joint pain is normal. Seek medical attention if:

• Pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, or fever
• Pain is affecting your daily activities
• Sudden pain after injury
• Loss of motion
• Inability to bear weight
• Multiple joints affected

While visiting the emergency room is always an option, at our BGONow walk-in orthopedic clinics, you will receive more specialized care than in an emergency room while saving time and money. All our walk-in clinics have state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI. If follow-up or surgery is required, our board-certified specialists will be there with you every step of the way. However, in certain cases where you are experiencing severe bleeding or your injury may be life-threatening, go straight to the ER.