Muscle and Joint Pain

Aches and pains in our bones, joints, and muscles may be caused by everyday wear and tear, overuse, or aging. This pain can also be the result of injury or illness. No matter the cause, the pain medicine experts at Weill Cornell Medicine can help alleviate pain and improve quality of life.

Muscle and Joint Pain Symptoms

Muscle Pain

This pain is more intense and severe the feeling of soreness. It is normal to experience sore muscles several hours after intense exertion; this feeling goes away after 48 hours.

Muscle pain, however, occurs quickly and lasts for more than several days. Contact a physician as soon as possible if you experience these symptoms because it may be a sign of injury.

Joint Pain

Caused by overuse or injury, the most common examples of joint pain are tennis elbow and knee injury. Symptoms include:

• Sudden, severe pain
• Swelling
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Changes in temperature or color
• Changes in your range of motion

Sore and achy joints are a sign of osteoarthritis, an inflammatory condition that is more common with age. The cartilage that normally cushions the joints wears away, leaving the joints inflamed and painful.

Treatment Options for Muscle and Joint Pain

It can be difficult to determine the cause of muscle or joint pain. Our expert pain management physicians take the time to understand the possible causes and develop a targeted treatment plan to address the cause and minimize symptoms.

Most patients find relief through conservative treatments. These may include:

• Indirect ice and heat therapy
• Over-the-counter pain medications
• Exercise
• Physical therapy

Injections, nerve blocks, or surgery may be considered if other options are not successful.

Weill Cornell Medicine also offers clinical trials, giving patients access to treatments that may not be widely available. Learn more about Pain Management's current clinical trials.

Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine for Muscle or Joint Pain Treatment?

Muscle and joint pain can be challenging and difficult to live with. The physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Division of Pain Management use the latest research, the most advanced equipment, and innovative therapies to diagnose pain and develop a customized pain management plan for each patient.

We work closely with a broad team of specialists to help our patients regain independence, functionality, and improve quality of life. After assessing your case, we will tailor a treatment plan that may include medication, pain management, and physical therapy. When surgery is part of the plan, we offer the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques.

Learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we offer and contact us today to schedule a consultation.