Joint Pain
Occasional aches happen—but persistent joint pain that limits mobility, sleep, work, or daily routines deserves a precise diagnosis. Dr. John B. Fuller provides a refined, minimally invasive approach to identify the cause and deliver lasting relief with clear next steps.
What may be causing your joint pain
Joint pain can come from the joint itself or nearby structures such as tendons, ligaments, and bursae. The goal is to identify the driver so treatment is targeted and effective.
Arthritis / wear-and-tear
Degenerative or inflammatory conditions affecting the joint surface and surrounding tissues.
Tendinitis
Irritation or inflammation of the tendon near the joint, often from overuse or strain.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa (a cushioning sac), commonly felt as focal tenderness and swelling.
Sports or activity injuries
Sprains, strains, cartilage injury, or instability that can create persistent pain if not addressed.
Postural / movement patterns
Altered mechanics can overload a joint and create recurring discomfort or inflammation.
Fracture or structural injury
Trauma can cause joint pain via fracture or internal injury. If there’s deformity, severe pain, or sudden swelling—seek evaluation.
When to schedule an evaluation
Make an appointment if joint pain lasts a week or more and does not improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter medication— especially if pain is severe or there is visible bruising, a bump, or loss of function.
How we diagnose joint pain
History & symptom mapping
When it started, what it feels like, what worsens it, and how it affects your function.
Physical exam
Range of motion, tenderness points, swelling, strength, stability, and targeted provocative tests.
Imaging when appropriate
X-rays and/or ultrasound to evaluate joint structure and surrounding tissues.
Joint pain treatments offered
Treatment is individualized. Many patients improve with a conservative plan—then we escalate thoughtfully when needed.
Home strategies
Warm baths or ice, topical relievers, and activity modifications tailored to your symptoms.
Strength & function
Exercise and conditioning strategies to support the joint and restore confidence in movement.
Physical therapy
Guided rehab to improve mobility, stability, posture mechanics, and symptom control.
Support aids
Splints, braces, or immobilization tools when protection is needed for healing.
Corticosteroid injections
Targeted relief to reduce inflammation and restore function when appropriate.
Advanced surgical options
If symptoms persist: arthroscopy, joint replacement, fusion, or osteotomy may be considered based on your diagnosis and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. “Joint pain” describes symptoms (pain, stiffness, swelling, limited motion). Arthritis is a group of conditions that can cause joint pain and inflammation—one of several possible causes.
Causes can include arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, general wear-and-tear, sports injuries, movement mechanics/posture, and sometimes fractures or structural injury—especially after trauma.
If pain lasts a week or more without improvement, limits daily activities, or is severe—schedule an evaluation. Seek care promptly if there is deformity, inability to use the joint, severe pain, or sudden swelling.
Diagnosis begins with history and exam. Dr. Fuller evaluates range of motion, swelling, bruising, and tenderness, and may order imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound to look for joint damage or soft tissue involvement.
Treatment may include home care (heat/ice), strengthening and rehabilitation, topical options, physical therapy, supportive aids, and injections. If conservative care doesn’t provide relief, surgical options may be considered based on the diagnosis.
Clinical references
- MedlinePlus (NIH): Joint pain causes and signs of inflammation. View source
- Mayo Clinic: When to seek care for joint pain (deformity, severe pain, sudden swelling). View source
- NHS: Overview of joint pain and common causes. View source
- Mayo Clinic: Joint pain basics (arthritis is a common cause; many types). View source
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment vary by patient.