Osteoarthritis
When To Call a Doctor
Many conditions can cause symptoms similar to osteoarthritis. To find out the cause of your symptoms, call your doctor if you have:
- Sudden, unexplained swelling, warmth, or pain in any joint or joints.
- Joint pain associated with a fever or rash.
- Pain so severe that you are unable to use the joint.
- Mild joint symptoms that continue despite home treatment for more than 6 weeks.
Side effects can develop from taking large doses of aspirin or other arthritis medicine to relieve pain. Do not exceed the recommended dose of medicine without first talking to your doctor.
Watchful Waiting
If you have mild joint pain and stiffness, try home treatment first. If there is no improvement in 6 weeks, or if joint symptoms persist, call your doctor.
Who To See
The following health professionals can evaluate and manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis:
Individualized treatment programs can be designed that consider the severity of your symptoms, level of physical activity, and general health. In addition to your health professional, a therapeutic team may include:
- Physiatrists.
- Pain management specialists.
- Orthopedic surgeons.
- Physical therapists.
- Occupational therapists.
- Dietitians.
- Social workers.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: April 17, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Richa Dhawan, MD - Rheumatology | |
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