Should I See an Orthopedist or Internist for Joint Pain?

Should I see an orthopedic specialist or an internal medicine physician?

Hello: For the past week or two, I have been experiencing soreness in my knee and ankle joints.
Initially, it occurred at night when I lay down, to the point where the pain was so severe that I couldn't sleep.
Now it has progressed to soreness from my hips to my knees when sitting (it feels like both the muscles and joints are sore), making it difficult to sit still.
Because I am not sleeping well at night, my energy levels in the morning for work have also declined.
Which specialist should I see? Should I consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, or can I manage rehabilitation on my own? Thank you for your assistance.

Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/24

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine

Hello, the information you provided is not sufficient for a complete diagnosis.
If you have experienced these symptoms after suddenly engaging in intense physical activity, it could be a possible cause.
Similarly, prolonged fatigue or labor due to work can also lead to these symptoms.
In either case, adequate rest may lead to improvement.
However, if there is a family history of rheumatic or autoimmune diseases, it would be prudent to consider these conditions.
Given your age, it may be related to rheumatic or autoimmune issues.
I recommend visiting the rheumatology department at a hospital for further evaluation.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope this information helps address your concerns.
Dr.
Tsai Jue-Ren, Hualien Hospital.

Reply Date: 2006/10/24

More Info

When dealing with joint pain, particularly in the knees and ankles, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes and the appropriate specialists to consult. Based on your description of symptoms, which include pain during rest, difficulty sleeping, and discomfort while sitting, it is advisable to see an orthopedist first. An orthopedist specializes in musculoskeletal issues, including joint pain, and can provide a thorough evaluation of your condition.

Why See an Orthopedist?
1. Specialized Knowledge: Orthopedic surgeons have extensive training in diagnosing and treating conditions related to bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. They can perform physical examinations, order imaging tests (like X-rays or MRIs), and determine if there are any structural issues contributing to your pain.

2. Potential for Specific Treatments: If your pain is due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or ligament injuries, an orthopedist can recommend specific treatments, which may include physical therapy, medications, or even surgical options if necessary.

3. Management of Chronic Conditions: If your pain is chronic, as indicated by its persistence over the past weeks, an orthopedist can help manage it effectively, possibly through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and rehabilitation exercises.

When to Consider an Internist?
While an orthopedist is the primary specialist for joint pain, there are scenarios where consulting an internist may be beneficial:
1. Systemic Conditions: If your joint pain is accompanied by other systemic symptoms (like fever, fatigue, or weight loss), it may indicate an underlying condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, which an internist can help diagnose and manage.

2. Comorbidities: If you have other health issues (like diabetes or hypertension) that could complicate your treatment, an internist can provide a comprehensive approach to your overall health.

3. Referrals: An internist can also refer you to a specialist if they determine that your joint pain requires more focused treatment.

Self-Rehabilitation and Alternative Approaches
While waiting for your appointment or if you prefer to explore self-management strategies, consider the following:
1. Rest and Ice: Give your joints a break and apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain.

2. Gentle Exercise: Engage in low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to maintain mobility without putting excessive strain on your joints.

3. Physical Therapy: If possible, consult a physical therapist who can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your needs, focusing on strengthening the muscles around your joints and improving flexibility.

4. Over-the-Counter Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

5. Diet and Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on your joints. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods (like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish) into your diet may also help.

Conclusion
In summary, given your symptoms of knee and ankle pain, it is advisable to see an orthopedist for a thorough evaluation and targeted treatment. If systemic issues are suspected, an internist may also be consulted. Meanwhile, consider self-management strategies to alleviate your discomfort. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

Similar Q&A

Which Specialist Should I See for My Joint Pain and Discomfort?

Hello, Doctor. Allow me to describe the following symptoms: 1. My finger joints are painful, and I initially thought it was rheumatoid arthritis, so I went to an orthopedic specialist for blood tests. However, the tests came back normal, but the finger joints still hurt when touc...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Miss Little Dot: Based on your statements, it is necessary to consider several possibilities, including rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophies, osteoarthritis, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, and others. It is recommended that you first discuss this with you...

Tailbone Pain: Should You See an Orthopedist or a Rehabilitation Specialist?

Since the end of June, I have been experiencing pain in my coccyx when sitting, whether watching movies or sitting on the bed, to the point that I have to keep shifting positions. Should I see an orthopedic specialist or a rehabilitation specialist?

Dr. Zhou Jianwen reply Rehabilitation
Orthopedics or Rehabilitation Medicine are both acceptable.

Understanding Knee and Hip Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my grandmother (79 years old). For the past few weeks, she has been experiencing pain in both legs from the knees to the pelvis. She has not had any falls, and although she has tried acupuncture, it has not helped. She has also undergone X-...

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics
Hello Aping, X-rays cannot determine if there is nerve compression. If the pain persists despite conservative treatment, an MRI should be performed to check for nerve compression. You can consult either an orthopedic specialist or a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Which Specialist to See for Leg Pain and Cramps?

You should see an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist for your symptoms.

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
Hello! It is recommended to consult with a family medicine clinic first. Thank you!