Musculoskeletal Pain

Musculoskeletal Pain services offered in College Place, WA

Musculoskeletal pain can make everyday movements, work, exercise, and sleep significantly more difficult. At RestoraMed Healthcare in College Place, Washington, Eloy Espinoza, MD, MPH, evaluates joint, muscle, bone, tendon, and ligament pain in children, adults, and seniors. He considers your symptoms, activity level, health history, and lifestyle when recommending care. Call RestoraMed Healthcare to schedule an evaluation or book an appointment online today for new, ongoing, or recurring pain.

Musculoskeletal Pain Q & A

What causes musculoskeletal pain?

Musculoskeletal pain can develop suddenly after an injury or gradually through overuse, aging, or an underlying medical condition. It can affect one area or several parts of the body.

Common issues include:

Sprains and strains
Arthritis and joint inflammation
Back or neck problems
Repetitive-motion injuries
Tendinitis or bursitis
Poor posture or muscle imbalances
Sports and workplace injuries

Children and teens may develop pain through sports, growth-related conditions, or heavy backpacks. Adults may experience discomfort from physical work, exercise, prolonged sitting, or arthritis.

Older adults may also have pain related to reduced mobility, falls, or age-related changes in the joints and spine.

What happens during a musculoskeletal pain evaluation?

Dr. Espinoza asks where the pain occurs, how it feels, when it started, and which movements make it better or worse. He may also ask about injuries, what exercise you do, your occupation, how well you sleep, your medication use, and any other symptoms.

The examination assesses your:

Range of motion
Muscle strength
Balance and walking
Joint stability
Nerve function
Tenderness and swelling

You may need an X-ray, laboratory testing, or another imaging study. These tests identify fractures, arthritis, inflammation, and other possible causes. Dr. Espinoza may also refer you to an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist when needed.

How can musculoskeletal pain be treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Short-term rest and changes to your usual activities may allow an injury to heal. Ice and heat, gentle movement, stretching, and strengthening exercises can reduce discomfort and improve function.

Physical therapy improves strength, flexibility, posture, and movement patterns. Dr. Espinoza may also recommend over-the-counter or prescription medication when appropriate. He reviews your medical history and current medicines to reduce the risk of side effects.

Patients with ongoing pain may also benefit from weight management, improved sleep, stress reduction, and changes to their work or exercise routines.

When should I seek medical care for musculoskeletal pain?

You should seek medical care for:

Severe pain after a fall or accident
An obviously deformed joint
Sudden weakness
Loss of bladder or bowel control
A hot and swollen joint with fever

Schedule a routine appointment if your pain lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, limits movement, or interferes with sleep and daily activities.

Prompt care prevents a minor injury from becoming a longer-term problem. Call RestoraMed Healthcare to arrange a musculoskeletal pain evaluation or schedule a consultation online today.