Arthritis & Joint Pain Care in Boynton Beach, FL
Stiff, aching, or swollen joints can make everyday activities like walking, gardening, or playing with grandchildren feel difficult. With a background in sports medicine, geriatric medicine, and chronic care management, Dr. Trudell Doctor and our team at Trudell Doctor, M.D. & Associates help patients in Boynton Beach, FL find the cause of their joint pain and build a plan to stay active and comfortable.
Common Types of Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis: The most common form, caused by gradual wear of the cartilage that cushions the joints, often affecting knees, hips, hands, and the spine.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing swelling and stiffness.
- Gout: A form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals, often producing sudden, intense pain in the big toe or other joints.
Other Causes of Joint Pain
Not all joint pain is arthritis. Sprains, strains, overuse injuries, tendonitis, and bursitis are also common, especially among active adults and athletes. Joint aches may also accompany thyroid disorders and hormonal changes during menopause.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Joint pain that worsens with activity or after rest
- Morning stiffness
- Swelling, warmth, or redness around a joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Grinding or clicking sensations
Diagnosis
Your provider will review your symptoms and history and perform a hands-on exam of the affected joints. We may order lab work to check for inflammation, uric acid, or autoimmune markers, and imaging such as X-rays when needed. If specialized care is required, we coordinate referrals to rheumatology or orthopedics as part of your primary care.
Treatment Options
- Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications
- Activity guidance, stretching, and low-impact exercise
- Physical therapy referrals
- Weight loss through our medical weight loss program to reduce stress on weight-bearing joints
- Joint injections for appropriate patients
- Management of related conditions such as diabetes
The Weight and Joint Connection
Every extra pound of body weight adds pressure to the knees and hips. For patients living with obesity, even modest weight loss through our weight management services can significantly reduce joint pain and slow arthritis progression.
Staying Active at Every Age
Whether you are a weekend athlete, a student who needs a sports physical, or a senior looking to maintain mobility, our family medicine providers are here to help. Regular preventive visits are a good time to discuss joint health. Learn more about other conditions we treat.
Arthritis & Joint Pain FAQs
What is the most common type of arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type. It develops gradually as the protective cartilage in the joints wears down over time.
Is exercise good for arthritis?
Yes. Low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga can strengthen the muscles around the joints, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
Can losing weight help my knee pain?
Yes. Reducing body weight lowers the load on your knees and hips, which can ease pain and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
When should I see a doctor for joint pain?
See your provider if joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps you from normal activities, or comes with swelling, redness, warmth, or fever.
Can arthritis be cured?
Most types of arthritis cannot be cured, but they can be managed effectively with the right combination of medication, activity, weight management, and specialist care when needed.
Is joint pain a normal part of aging?
Joint changes are common with age, but ongoing pain is not something you simply have to accept. Treatment can help you stay active and comfortable.
Get Moving Comfortably Again
Don’t let joint pain limit your life. Schedule an evaluation with Trudell Doctor, M.D. & Associates in Boynton Beach, FL by calling (561) 807-7780 or requesting an appointment online.