FAQs (Answered) About Chronic Joint Pain

Rheumatic conditions often cause chronic pain, and here at Comprehensive Arthritis Care, our board-certified rheumatologist Mohammad F. Ali, MD, and the rest of our team regard chronic pain in rheumatology patients as an important and separate entity that deserves treatment alongside managing the underlying condition. 

As with other pain conditions, pain occurring with rheumatic conditions benefits from a multimodal approach. Our team integrates both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments to relieve pain and improve quality of life in patients living with rheumatic conditions. 

Here are some frequently asked questions you should ask to manage the chronic pain associated with your underlying problem.

How should I talk to my rheumatologist about persistent pain?

It’s essential to have an open discussion about the pain you’re experiencing. It’s extremely helpful to be specific about the type, frequency, and intensity of your pain, as well as how it affects your daily life. 

Ask your provider what you can do to manage the pain on a daily basis and whether they can add specific pain management strategies to your current treatment plan. Communicating how pain limits your activities or mood can help your provider better understand its impact on your life. 

When you visit us at Comprehensive Arthritis Care, our team performs a comprehensive evaluation of your pain and monitors you to assess whether the plan is adequately managing it. 

What treatment approaches are available for managing chronic pain in rheumatic conditions?

There are several ways to manage chronic pain from rheumatic diseases, and a multidisciplinary approach is often the most effective. A treatment plan to manage your pain may involve combining medications with physical therapies and lifestyle changes. Ask your provider about specific medications that can be added to your current plan, including:

• NSAIDs
• DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs)
• Biologics
• Corticosteroids

Physical therapy can help you stay active without worsening the pain, and movement is critical to preventing joint stiffness and muscle weakness. You might ask for a referral to a physical therapist specializing in rheumatic diseases.

Complementary therapies like massage and yoga may also help to relieve chronic pain. Ask your provider if any of these therapies could be beneficial for your treatment plan. In some cases, seeing a pain management specialist could provide focused care for your chronic pain.

IV infusion therapy

IV infusion therapy can help manage chronic pain from rheumatic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. This treatment delivers medications, fluids, and/or nutrients directly into your bloodstream. 

Our state-of-the-art infusion suite offers a wide range of infusible medications, including biologics and corticosteroids, which target inflammation and pain at the source.

Additionally, IV infusion therapy can provide essential nutrients and fluids to support overall health, especially for patients experiencing fatigue alongside other symptoms. Infusions of vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes can boost energy levels.

What can I do at home to help manage my chronic pain?

There are several strategies you can implement at home to manage chronic pain and improve your quality of life. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to keep your joints healthy and strong. 

We often recommend low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, or cycling. Additionally, heat and cold therapy can help. Heat can relax stiff muscles, while cold reduces inflammation and swelling. 

It’s also helpful to explore mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing. 

Exceptional comprehensive care 

If you’re struggling with persistent pain, our team works closely with you to develop effective strategies to best manage your pain. Don’t let chronic pain go unaddressed. Contact us at Comprehensive Arthritis Care today to schedule an appointment and explore treatment options.