Nonsurgical and surgical options for managing joint pain

A twinge in your knee after a long day of hiking and slight shoulder pain after starting a new workout plan is common. Occasional joint pain is a normal part of life. But chronic joint pain that gets in the way of the things you love, isn’t. Our team of orthopedists, physical therapists and joint care experts can treat even the most complex joint issues.

Whether you’re dealing with pain caused by arthritis or an injury, we’ll guide you toward the most effective treatment plan for you. We provide comprehensive treatments for joints, including medications, physical therapy and, when necessary, surgery.

We’ve helped patients of all ages and activity levels, from professional athletes to yoga-lovers, get back to the life they love. Make an appointment at one of our many locations throughout the Twin Cities to take your first step to managing joint pain.

There are several different types of medicines that can relieve joint pain. We commonly prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids, such as prednisone and cortisone, to manage painful inflammation.

Medicines are typically fast acting, but they only provide short-term relief. That’s why we usually prescribe them alongside treatments proven to manage joint pain long term, such as physical therapy. Medications can help keep pain levels low while completing another course of treatment, letting you enjoy the benefits of both options.

Corticosteroid injections can provide long-term relief from inflammation in your hips, shoulders or knees. They may provide relief for up to three months.

Hyaluronic injections are a type of treatment where we inject gel – very similar to natural joint fluid – into the affected joint. Right now, insurance only covers these for knee conditions. Pain relief from hyaluronic injections may last anywhere from a few months up to a year.

Physical therapy uses specialized exercises, manual therapy and education to manage pain and improve mobility. Our board-certified physical therapists will lead you through exercises that target the muscles around your joints. Strengthening these muscles takes pressure off your joints to relieve pain and stress.

We’ll also show you how to modify activities so you can keep doing the things you love without the risk of pain or further injury.

TRIA is at the forefront of orthobiologics, a type of treatment that uses substances naturally found in the body to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Orthobiologic treatments can be used instead of surgery or in addition to surgery. While there are many different types of orthobiologic therapies, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are the most commonly used orthobiologic treatment.