Joint pain: assess, treat it

Joint pain is most commonly experienced in the feet, toes, ankles and knees. Symptoms can include aching, swelling and stiffness making standing and other activities painful.
Musculoskeletal podiatrist Dr David Kavanagh, of Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, says joint pain can have many causes.
“It can be the result of overuse, faulty biomechanics, an injury or accident, but it could also be a sign of arthritis, of which rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are most common,” Dr Kavanagh said.
Osteoarthritis is caused by mechanical wear and tear of joints, so usually occurs in older people.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, where the body’s own immune system attacks the joints and can affect people of all ages, including children. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis and correct treatment is very important, he said.
The most qualified practitioner to diagnose and treat pain and injury associated with the feet and legs is a musculoskeletal podiatrist who has specific expertise in biomechanics and musculoskeletal concerns.
Apart from thorough and accurate diagnostics and assessment, an experienced musculoskeletal podiatrist can provide advice and treatments including: specific exercises for strengthening and conditioning, general exercise and nutritional advice to assist healing and weight bearing strain, treatment plans to address faulty biomechanics, orthotic prescription, advice on appropriate shoe selection, dry needling and natural regenerative injection therapies such as prolotherapy and PRP (platelet rich plasma).
For all joint pain, injuries or arthritis get expert advice at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Geelong. Call 1300 328 300. Mention this article for $50 off initial consults.