Joint Pain Clinic in Thane

1. Knee Pain

Knee pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit an orthopaedic clinic.

It may develop because of:

• Knee osteoarthritis
• Meniscus injuries
• Ligament sprains or tears
• Patellofemoral pain
• Tendon problems
• Previous fractures
• Inflammatory joint conditions

Patients may experience pain while walking, climbing stairs, squatting or standing after prolonged sitting.

Treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis, symptom severity and functional limitations.

2. Hip Pain

Hip pain may be felt in the groin, outer thigh, buttock or surrounding region.

Common causes include:

• Hip osteoarthritis
• Avascular necrosis
• Tendon disorders
• Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
• Hip impingement
• Previous hip injuries
• Certain fractures

Hip problems can make walking, bending, sitting and putting on footwear difficult.

Some patients may experience pain that travels towards the thigh or knee.

3. Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can interfere with activities such as lifting the arm, dressing, combing hair or sleeping on the affected side.

Possible causes include:

• Rotator cuff injuries
• Frozen shoulder
• Shoulder arthritis
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Shoulder instability
• Sports-related injuries

Treatment may include physiotherapy, exercise modification, medication or selected procedures.

4. Ankle and Foot Joint Pain

Pain around the ankle and foot can affect balance and walking.

Possible causes include ankle sprains, arthritis, tendon injuries, previous fractures or other structural problems.

Treatment depends on the injured tissues, joint stability and underlying condition.

5. Wrist and Elbow Joint Pain

Wrist and elbow discomfort may occur due to repetitive activities, injuries, arthritis or tendon disorders.

Symptoms can make gripping, lifting and other everyday movements difficult.

6. Multiple Joint Pain

Some patients experience pain and stiffness affecting several joints.

Possible causes include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Other inflammatory arthritis conditions
• Crystal arthritis, including gout
• Systemic inflammatory diseases
• Certain infections
• Age-related degenerative joint changes

Multiple swollen joints, prolonged morning stiffness or symptoms involving other body systems may require assessment by a rheumatologist.

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition involving changes to cartilage, bone and other joint tissues.

It frequently affects the knees, hips and hands.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain during movement
• Joint stiffness
• Reduced flexibility
• Difficulty walking
• Swelling during symptom flare-ups
• Grinding or clicking sensations

Osteoarthritis becomes more common with age, but younger adults may also develop it, particularly following injuries.

Treatment usually begins with therapeutic exercise, education, weight management when appropriate and other non-surgical measures.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that can cause painful, swollen and stiff joints.

It frequently affects multiple joints and may cause prolonged morning stiffness.

Early diagnosis and disease-modifying treatment under a rheumatologist are important to reduce inflammation and limit joint damage.

Orthopaedic care may be needed for selected structural complications.

3. Sports Injuries

Sports-related injuries can damage the ligaments, tendons, cartilage or other joint structures.

Common examples include:

• ACL injuries
• Meniscus tears
• Shoulder instability
• Ankle sprains
• Cartilage injuries

Treatment may involve activity modification, physiotherapy, bracing or surgery in selected cases.

4. Tendinitis and Bursitis

Tendinitis involves irritation or inflammation of a tendon, while bursitis affects small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction around joints.

These conditions may cause pain during repetitive movement or pressure on the affected area.

5. Gout and Crystal Arthritis

Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in and around joints, triggering painful inflammatory attacks.

Patients may experience sudden severe pain, redness, warmth and swelling.

Medical evaluation is important because a hot, swollen joint can also indicate an infection.

6. Previous Joint Injuries

Fractures, ligament damage and significant cartilage injuries may contribute to persistent symptoms or post-traumatic arthritis.

Some patients develop joint pain months or years after the original injury.

7. Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis occurs when the blood supply to part of a bone is disrupted.

It commonly affects the femoral head in the hip.

Progressive damage can lead to joint collapse and secondary arthritis.

Early diagnosis is important because treatment options depend on the disease stage.

8. Joint Infection

Septic arthritis is an infection inside a joint that may cause severe pain, warmth, swelling, fever and difficulty moving the joint.

A suspected infected joint is a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital evaluation.

Step 1: Detailed Medical History

Dr. Girish Dhanawat evaluates:

• Location and duration of pain
• Activities that worsen symptoms
• Previous injuries
• Morning stiffness
• Swelling or instability
• Existing medical conditions
• Previous treatments
• Functional limitations

Step 2: Physical Examination

The examination may include assessment of:

• Joint movement
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Alignment
• Stability
• Muscle strength
• Walking pattern
• Specific clinical signs

Step 3: X-Ray Examination

X-rays may help assess bone alignment, fractures, joint-space changes and certain features of arthritis.

Routine imaging is not required for every patient with typical osteoarthritis.

Step 4: MRI Scan

MRI may be recommended when internal joint structures such as cartilage, ligaments or tendons need further evaluation.

It can be useful for selected sports injuries and unexplained joint symptoms.

Step 5: Ultrasound Examination

Musculoskeletal ultrasound may help assess selected tendon, bursal and soft-tissue conditions.

It can also assist with certain guided procedures.

Step 6: Blood Tests

Blood tests may be recommended if inflammatory arthritis, infection or another systemic condition is suspected.

Step 7: Joint Fluid Analysis

For certain swollen joints, fluid may be withdrawn and tested for infection, crystals or inflammatory findings.

Step 8: Personalised Treatment Planning

The doctor reviews clinical findings and investigation results before discussing the most appropriate treatment options.

1. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy helps restore movement, improve muscle strength and support joint stability.

A rehabilitation programme may include:

• Joint mobility exercises
• Muscle strengthening
• Balance training
• Walking exercises
• Flexibility training
• Functional movement training

Exercise programmes should be tailored to the affected joint and diagnosis.

2. Therapeutic Exercise

Regular, appropriate physical activity is important for maintaining joint health.

Depending on the condition, recommended activities may include walking, cycling, swimming and strengthening exercises.

Patients with osteoarthritis may benefit from consistent exercise even if mild discomfort occurs initially.

The goal is to improve strength and function without unnecessarily overloading the injured joint.

3. Weight Management

Excess body weight can increase mechanical loading on weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips.

For patients living with overweight or obesity, gradual weight reduction may help reduce symptoms and improve mobility.

Weight management should be combined with appropriate exercise and nutrition guidance.

4. Pain-Relieving Medication

Medication may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation.

Treatment options may include:

• Topical anti-inflammatory medication
• Selected oral anti-inflammatory medication
• Other appropriate pain-relieving medicines

The choice depends on the diagnosis and individual medical history.

Anti-inflammatory medication may not be suitable for patients with certain kidney, heart or gastrointestinal conditions.

5. Activity Modification

Some patients benefit from temporarily reducing activities that aggravate their symptoms.

Examples include:

• Avoiding repetitive deep squatting during painful flare-ups
• Reducing high-impact exercise temporarily
• Taking regular movement breaks
• Modifying lifting techniques
• Gradually increasing activity levels

Complete inactivity is generally not recommended for uncomplicated osteoarthritis.

6. Assistive Devices

Selected patients may benefit from walking sticks, braces or other aids.

These devices may improve confidence, reduce loading or provide additional stability when appropriately prescribed.

Not every patient needs a brace or support.

7. Patient Education and Self-Management

Understanding the diagnosis can help patients manage symptoms more effectively.

Patients may receive guidance on:

• Safe physical activity
• Pain flare-up management
• Home exercises
• Joint protection
• Expected recovery
• When to seek further medical review

1. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections may provide short-term relief from inflammation and pain in selected patients.

For osteoarthritis, the benefit is generally temporary.

Repeated injections are not suitable for every patient and require consideration of potential risks.

2. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections are sometimes offered for knee osteoarthritis.

However, evidence of meaningful benefit is inconsistent, and some major clinical guidelines recommend against their routine use.

They should not be presented as a guaranteed or cartilage-restoring treatment.

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

PRP uses a preparation derived from the patient's own blood.

It is being studied and used in selected musculoskeletal conditions.

Evidence varies by condition and preparation method, and routine use for osteoarthritis is not supported by all major guidelines.

Patients should be informed about uncertainties regarding benefits, costs and long-term outcomes.

4. Other Injection-Based Treatments

Additional injection treatments may be discussed in certain circumstances.

Suitability depends on the diagnosis, clinical evidence, safety considerations and availability.

Knee Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy may be used for certain meniscus tears, ligament injuries and other surgically treatable intra-articular knee problems.

It is not routinely recommended for uncomplicated degenerative osteoarthritis.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Total or partial knee replacement may be considered for patients with advanced knee arthritis and substantial functional limitations despite appropriate non-surgical management.

Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement may be recommended for selected patients with severe hip arthritis, advanced avascular necrosis or certain hip fractures.

Fracture Fixation Surgery

Fractures causing joint instability or significant displacement may require surgical stabilisation.

Other Orthopaedic Procedures

Treatment depends on the affected joint and underlying condition.

The need for surgery is determined after appropriate evaluation.

Joint Pain in Young Adults

Younger adults may experience joint problems due to sports injuries, overuse, ligament damage or inflammatory conditions.

Treatment often focuses on identifying the specific injury, restoring strength and helping patients return safely to physical activity.

Joint Pain in Middle-Aged Adults

Joint pain during middle age may be associated with early osteoarthritis, previous injuries, muscle weakness or increased activity demands.

Targeted exercise and appropriate treatment may help preserve mobility.

Joint Pain in Older Adults

Older adults may experience osteoarthritis, reduced muscle strength, previous joint injuries or fragility-related fractures.

Management focuses on maintaining independence, preventing falls, improving mobility and assessing whether additional treatment is necessary.

Age alone does not determine whether surgery is appropriate.

Identification of the Underlying Cause

Different joint disorders require different treatments.

A clear diagnosis helps avoid inappropriate medication or unnecessary procedures.

Improved Pain Management

Suitable treatment may reduce discomfort and improve participation in everyday activities.

Better Joint Movement

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation can help maintain flexibility, strength and functional movement.

Reduced Risk of Selected Complications

Early recognition of certain injuries and inflammatory conditions may reduce the likelihood of avoidable joint damage.

Individualised Treatment Planning

Patients can discuss treatment options suited to their health, mobility needs and personal goals.

Improved Quality of Life

Effective management may make everyday tasks, family activities and physical exercise more comfortable.

Early assessment does not guarantee prevention of arthritis or future surgery, but it supports informed treatment decisions.

First 1–2 Weeks

Initial management may focus on:

• Identifying the cause
• Reducing painful aggravating activities
• Beginning appropriate exercises
• Managing inflammation
• Establishing a treatment plan

Weeks 3–6

Some patients begin noticing improved movement, confidence and tolerance for activity.

Exercises may be progressed according to symptoms and functional ability.

Weeks 6–12

Strengthening and rehabilitation may lead to further functional improvements.

Patients with chronic osteoarthritis often benefit from sustained exercise rather than short treatment courses alone.

Three to Six Months

Long-term treatment may focus on maintaining strength, improving endurance and managing recurrent symptoms.

Patients with structural injuries or inflammatory disease may require a different care plan.

Long-Term Joint Care

Ongoing exercise, symptom monitoring and follow-up when needed may help support joint function.

Improvement varies, and some conditions require longer-term specialist management.

1. Stay Physically Active

Choose activities appropriate for your condition and gradually build activity.

2. Strengthen Supporting Muscles

Strong muscles help support joints and improve control during movement.

3. Maintain an Appropriate Body Weight

Weight management may reduce joint loading and improve symptoms in some patients.

4. Avoid Sudden Activity Increases

Increase exercise intensity and duration gradually to reduce the likelihood of overload.

5. Take Movement Breaks

Avoid remaining in one position for prolonged periods if it worsens stiffness.

6. Use Appropriate Footwear

Supportive footwear may improve comfort during daily activities, depending on the condition.

7. Follow Your Rehabilitation Programme

Consistent exercise is usually more useful than performing intensive exercises irregularly.

8. Seek Medical Evaluation for Persistent Symptoms

Do not rely indefinitely on painkillers or home remedies when symptoms continue or worsen.

Consultation and Clinical Evaluation

The initial consultation includes assessment of symptoms, examination and treatment planning.

Diagnostic Investigations

Some patients may require X-rays, MRI scans, ultrasound or blood tests.

Physiotherapy

Costs depend on the number of sessions, rehabilitation requirements and treatment duration.

Medication

Expenses vary according to the prescribed medicines and duration of treatment.

Joint Injections

Selected injections may involve medication, procedure and imaging-guidance charges.

Surgical Treatment

Patients requiring arthroscopy, fracture surgery or joint replacement may have additional expenses related to hospitalisation, implants and rehabilitation.

Follow-Up Care

Some conditions require periodic reviews to assess symptom improvement and adjust treatment.

Insurance Coverage

Coverage depends on the diagnosis, treatment and individual insurance policy.

Consultations and routine outpatient treatments may not be covered under every policy.

Patients should confirm applicable charges and insurance benefits before starting treatment.

Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Care

Dr. Girish Dhanawat, MBBS, D. Ortho., is an Orthopedic Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist in Thane who provides clinical evaluation of knee, hip and other orthopaedic conditions.

Individualised Assessment

Every patient's symptoms, activity level, medical history and functional requirements are different.

Treatment recommendations are based on these individual factors.

Focus on Appropriate Treatment Selection

Not every patient with joint pain requires an injection or operation.

Non-surgical treatments may be recommended when they are suitable for the diagnosis.

Knee and Hip Joint Evaluation

Patients experiencing knee or hip pain can discuss possible causes, diagnostic requirements and treatment options.

Patient Education

Clear explanations of the diagnosis, expected outcomes, treatment limitations and potential risks help patients make informed decisions.

Rehabilitation and Long-Term Mobility

Management focuses on improving function and helping patients maintain safe, sustainable physical activity.