musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Pain in and Around a Single Joint
Treatment of Pain in a Single Joint
Overall treatment is directed at the underlying disorder. IV antibiotics are usually given immediately or as soon as possible if acute bacterial infectious arthritis is suspected. Joint inflammation is usually treated symptomatically with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Pain without inflammation is usually more safely treated withacetaminophen. Adjunctive treatment for pain can include joint immobilization with a splint or sling and heat or cold therapy. Physical therapy after the acute symptoms have lessened is useful to increase or maintain range of motion and strengthen adjacent muscles. 