FAQs: Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions

From insurance and appointments to treatments and safety—we're here to make things clear, simple, and stress-free.

Everything You Need to Know—All in One Place

How can I slow down arthritis progression?

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The good news? Arthritis progression can often be slowed, especially when it’s caught early and managed properly.

Here are some key strategies:

  • Stay active with joint-friendly movement like walking or swimming
  • Strengthen surrounding muscles to protect your joints
  • Eat an anti-inflammatory diet (think colorful veggies, fish, and whole grains)
  • Maintain a healthy weight — even losing a few pounds can take major pressure off your joints
  • Use joint protection tools (braces, supportive shoes, etc.)
  • Address pain early — don’t wait for it to get unbearable

At Medici, we build long-term, minimally invasive treatment plans to protect your joints and preserve your quality of life.

Can knee osteoarthritis be treated without surgery?

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Yes — and in many cases, surgery isn’t the first step. We help many patients manage knee osteoarthritis with non-surgical treatments that can significantly improve pain and mobility.

Here are some effective options we offer:

  • Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles supporting your knee
  • Injections like hyaluronic acid or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
  • Prolotherapy to support ligament repair
  • Regenerative therapies to promote natural healing
  • Weight management to reduce stress on the joint
  • Bracing or orthotics for support

Surgery is sometimes necessary — but our goal is always to help you avoid it when possible. Our team customizes your treatment based on your condition and lifestyle.

What are the early signs of osteoarthritis?

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Osteoarthritis doesn’t usually show up all at once — it starts subtly and gradually builds. That’s why catching the early signs is so important.

Here’s what to watch for:

  • Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
  • A feeling of grinding or “creaking” in the joints
  • Mild swelling after activity
  • Reduced range of motion — it feels harder to bend, reach, or twist
  • Dull, aching pain that comes and goes

These symptoms often appear in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, or spine — but fingers, hands, and shoulders can be affected too. If you’re noticing these signs more often, it’s a good time to talk to a specialist. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we can help you take control early and keep your joints moving with less pain.

What are the best natural supplements for joint health?

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If you're looking to give your joints a little extra love, several natural supplements may help support cartilage health, reduce inflammation, and keep you moving comfortably:

🦴 Glucosamine & Chondroitin – Help maintain cartilage and may slow joint degeneration
🌿 Turmeric/Curcumin – A natural anti-inflammatory, great for arthritis support
💧 Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in fish oil, supports joint lubrication and reduces stiffness
🦠 Collagen – Supports cartilage, tendons, and ligaments
🍃 Boswellia – Herbal extract known for its anti-inflammatory properties
☀️ Vitamin D & Calcium – Essential for bone strength and joint function

Always check with your provider before starting any supplement, especially if you’re on medications. At Medici, we’re happy to recommend science-backed options based on your unique needs and conditions.

Are cortisone shots bad for your joints?

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Cortisone shots can be a helpful short-term solution, especially during a painful flare-up — but like most things, moderation is key.

Here’s what you should know:

  • Occasional cortisone injections are generally safe and effective
  • Too many, too frequently (especially in the same joint) can lead to:
    • Cartilage breakdown
    • Weakened tendons or ligaments
    • Joint degeneration over time

That’s why at Medici, we use cortisone sparingly — and always as part of a comprehensive plan that includes long-term, restorative treatments like physical therapy, regenerative medicine, or prolotherapy.

What is the difference between PRP therapy and cortisone injections?

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Both PRP and cortisone injections are used to treat pain — but they work in very different ways.

  • Cortisone injections are anti-inflammatory. They calm down pain and swelling fast, which can be great in the short-term. But they don’t heal the tissue — they simply suppress the inflammation. And repeated use over time can weaken cartilage or tendons.
  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, on the other hand, uses your own blood, spun to concentrate the healing platelets. These platelets are then injected into the injured area to stimulate actual tissue repair. It takes longer to feel results compared to cortisone, but the effects are more natural and long-lasting.

⚖️ Think of cortisone as a quick fix — PRP as a longer-term solution that helps your body heal from within.

How does prolotherapy work for joint pain?

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Prolotherapy might sound a little futuristic, but it’s actually been around for decades — and it works by kickstarting your body’s natural repair process.

Here’s how it works:

A pain management specialist injects a natural irritant solution (often dextrose) into the joint or surrounding ligaments/tendons. This controlled irritation triggers the body to send healing cells and nutrients to the area, strengthening weakened tissue over time.

It’s particularly helpful for:

  • Loose or unstable joints
  • Chronic joint pain
  • Ligament or tendon injuries

At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we often combine prolotherapy with other therapies (like physical therapy or PRP) for even better results.

What is regenerative medicine, and how can it help with pain relief?

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Regenerative medicine is one of the most exciting frontiers in pain relief and healing — and it’s changing lives every day.

At its core, regenerative medicine uses your body’s own healing power to repair damaged tissues and reduce pain. Instead of just masking symptoms (like pain meds), it encourages true repair and regeneration at the source.

Some regenerative therapies we use at Medici include:

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
  • Prolotherapy
  • Stem cell-based treatments

These therapies can help with conditions like arthritis, joint pain, tendon injuries, and chronic back pain — especially when other treatments haven’t worked. Best of all, they’re minimally invasive and come with little to no downtime.

What does a pain management doctor do?

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Pain management doctors are like detectives and coaches wrapped into one. Our job is to figure out what’s causing your pain and create a comprehensive plan to help you feel better — and function better — long term.

At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, our doctors:

  • Conduct in-depth evaluations and diagnostic testing
  • Use targeted treatments like injections, nerve blocks, or spinal cord stimulation
  • Coordinate care with physical therapists and other providers
  • Help patients reduce or eliminate the need for addictive medications
  • Educate you on lifestyle changes that support healing

Our approach is patient-centered and holistic — we’re not just treating your pain, we’re helping you take your life back.

How can physical therapy help with chronic pain?

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Think of physical therapy as training your body to move smarter, not harder — even when pain tries to hold you back.

Chronic pain often leads to stiffness, weakness, and compensation patterns that can make things worse. A licensed physical therapist can help you:

  • Improve mobility and flexibility
  • Build strength and endurance
  • Correct imbalances that may be causing strain
  • Reduce inflammation and promote healing
  • Regain confidence in your movement

At Medici, physical therapy is a core part of many of our personalized treatment plans. When combined with other treatments like injections or regenerative medicine, it can be a powerful tool to restore quality of life.

What are the best non-surgical treatments for back pain?

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We’re all about least-invasive, most-effective here at Medici — and luckily, most back pain doesn’t require surgery!

Some of the best non-surgical options include:

  • Physical Therapy – Builds strength, improves posture, and reduces tension
  • Interventional Spine Treatments – Such as nerve blocks or epidural injections
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation – A game-changer for some chronic pain patients
  • Regenerative Medicine – Helps the body heal from within
  • Myofascial Release or Massage Therapy – Targets tight, inflamed soft tissue

Often, a combination of these therapies provides the best relief. We tailor your treatment to your unique condition, not just the symptoms.

When should I see a doctor for joint pain?

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If joint pain is interfering with your daily routine — it’s time to check in with a doctor. Occasional aches after a workout or a long day are normal, but you should see a specialist if:

  • The pain lasts more than a few weeks
  • You notice swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint
  • The joint feels unstable or like it might "give out"
  • Your range of motion is limited
  • Over-the-counter meds just aren’t cutting it

Early intervention can prevent further damage and help you avoid surgery later on. We offer a range of non-surgical treatments like injections, regenerative therapy, and physical therapy to help reduce pain and inflammation — and get you back to moving freely.

What is the difference between acute pain and chronic pain?

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Great question — understanding the difference is key to getting the right care.

Acute pain is your body’s natural response to an injury or illness. It comes on suddenly and usually doesn’t last long — think of a sprained ankle, a cut, or recovering after surgery. It typically goes away once the underlying issue is healed.

Chronic pain, on the other hand, sticks around. If your pain has lasted more than 3 months, even after the original injury has healed (or without a clear cause at all), it’s considered chronic. This kind of pain can be frustrating and emotionally draining, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we specialize in helping patients manage chronic pain using non-invasive, drug-free approaches whenever possible.

What’s the safest way to treat knee osteoarthritis without surgery?

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If you have knee osteoarthritis (OA), you might think surgery is inevitable—but there are safe and effective non-surgical treatments that can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

🔹 Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee OA:
Physical Therapy & Strength Training – Strengthening the quads, hamstrings, and glutes reduces knee stress.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Provides natural joint lubrication to improve movement.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Uses your own blood platelets to heal and reduce inflammation.
Prolotherapy – Helps strengthen knee ligaments for long-term stability.
Bracing & Orthotics – Custom knee braces offload pressure and provide support.
Weight Management & Nutrition – Reducing just 10-15 lbs can significantly reduce knee strain.

💡 When Surgery Might Be Needed:

  • If severe pain limits daily movement.
  • If knee damage is too advanced for regenerative therapies.
  • If bone-on-bone arthritis is present, and all other treatments have failed.

But for most people, knee OA can be managed safely without surgery using a combination of regenerative medicine, physical therapy, and targeted injections.

What are the best exercises to relieve arthritis pain?

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Staying active is one of the best ways to reduce arthritis pain! The key is to focus on gentle, joint-friendly exercises that improve mobility without excessive strain.

🏋️‍♂️ Top Arthritis-Friendly Exercises:
🦵 1. Water-Based Workouts (Swimming or Water Aerobics)

  • Water reduces joint impact while allowing full range of motion.

🚶 2. Walking (or Using a Treadmill)

  • Helps keep joints mobile without excessive strain.

🧘 3. Yoga & Stretching

  • Improves joint flexibility and reduces stiffness.
  • Try gentle poses like Cat-Cow, Seated Twists, or Child’s Pose.

🏋️ 4. Strength Training (With Light Weights or Resistance Bands)

  • Helps support joints by strengthening muscles.
  • Focus on quads, hamstrings, and glutes for knee arthritis.

🚴 5. Cycling (Stationary or Outdoor)

  • Provides low-impact movement to lubricate joints.

💡 Bonus Tips:
✅ Start slow and listen to your body—overdoing it can increase inflammation.
Stretch after exercise to prevent post-workout stiffness.
Try heat therapy before exercise and ice therapy after to reduce pain.

If arthritis pain limits mobility, treatments like PRP, hyaluronic acid injections, or prolotherapy can help keep you active and pain-free.

Are cortisone shots bad for you?

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Cortisone shots can be helpful for short-term pain relief, but they aren’t a long-term solution and do come with potential risks.

🔹 Pros of Cortisone Injections:
Reduces inflammation quickly (great for arthritis, bursitis, or tendonitis).
✅ Provides temporary relief, often lasting weeks to months.
✅ Can help delay or avoid surgery if used sparingly.

🚨 Potential Downsides & Risks:

  • Cartilage & Tissue Breakdown – Repeated cortisone injections can weaken cartilage and ligaments, leading to joint deterioration over time.
  • Short-Term Relief – The effects wear off, and the underlying issue isn’t fixed.
  • Increased Blood Sugar – For diabetics, cortisone can cause temporary spikes in blood sugar levels.
  • Risk of Infection or Joint Damage – While rare, repeated injections can cause joint instability.

💡 Safer Alternatives to Cortisone:

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Uses your own platelets to heal the joint naturally.
  • Prolotherapy – Stimulates long-term tissue repair without damaging cartilage.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Adds joint lubrication without harmful side effects.
  • Physical Therapy & Strength Training – Helps improve joint function without injections.

Cortisone isn’t necessarily bad, but it’s best used sparingly—and combined with regenerative or rehab-based treatments for lasting relief.

Can you really heal a herniated disc without surgery?

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Yes! Many people recover from a herniated disc without surgery using a combination of natural healing, therapy, and targeted treatments.

💡 How the Body Heals a Herniated Disc Naturally:
🔹 The disc reabsorbs fluid over time, reducing pressure on nearby nerves.
🔹 Inflammation decreases, allowing pain and swelling to subside.
🔹 Strengthening the surrounding muscles helps offload pressure from the disc.

🔥 Best Non-Surgical Treatments for a Herniated Disc:
Physical Therapy & Core Strengthening – Improves spinal support and posture.
Interventional Spine TreatmentsEpidural steroid injections can calm nerve irritation.
Regenerative Medicine (PRP & Stem Cell Therapy) – Helps repair damaged discs and tissues naturally.
Spinal Decompression Therapy – A gentle stretching technique that reduces disc pressure.
Lifestyle Modifications – Good posture, hydration, and anti-inflammatory nutrition speed up healing.

🚨 When Surgery Might Be Necessary:

  • If numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder control occurs.
  • If pain does not improve after 3-6 months of conservative treatment.

But in most cases, surgery isn’t needed, and natural disc healing is possible with the right approach.

What is prolotherapy, and how does it help with joint pain?

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Prolotherapy is a regenerative injection therapy that helps repair damaged ligaments, tendons, and joints by stimulating the body's natural healing response.

🔬 How It Works:
1️⃣ A small amount of an irritant solution (usually dextrose or saline) is injected into the damaged joint or soft tissue.
2️⃣ This triggers a controlled inflammatory response, signaling the body to increase blood flow and stimulate tissue repair.
3️⃣ Over time, the body produces new collagen, strengthening the ligaments and stabilizing the joint.

💡 Who Can Benefit?
✅ People with chronic joint pain (knees, shoulders, hips, spine).
✅ Those suffering from arthritis or degenerative joint disease.
✅ Athletes with ligament or tendon injuries (like tennis elbow or sprains).
✅ Patients looking for a non-surgical, long-term pain relief option.

Why It’s Effective:

  • Unlike painkillers, prolotherapy addresses the root cause (weak or damaged tissue) instead of just masking symptoms.
  • It’s minimally invasive, has little downtime, and avoids the risks of surgery.

If chronic joint pain is holding you back, prolotherapy can help restore function and reduce pain naturally—without relying on steroids or surgery.

How long does it take to recover from a rotator cuff injury without surgery?

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Recovery time depends on the severity of the tear and how well the injury is managed. In most cases, non-surgical recovery takes between 4 to 12 weeks, but full strength may take several months.

🔹 Rotator Cuff Recovery Timeline (Without Surgery):

  • Mild Strain (Grade 1) – 4-6 weeks with rest, physical therapy, and gradual strengthening.
  • Partial Tear (Grade 2) – 8-12 weeks with physical therapy, regenerative medicine (PRP), and targeted rehab.
  • Severe Tear (Grade 3, Non-Surgical Candidate) – Several months, often requiring platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy to aid healing.

💪 Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Rotator Cuff Injuries:
Physical Therapy – Restores mobility & prevents stiffness.
PRP or Stem Cell Therapy – Accelerates healing naturally.
Prolotherapy – Strengthens ligaments and tendon attachments.
Anti-Inflammatory Injections – Cortisone or biologic injections can help reduce pain (though PRP is a better long-term option).

🏋️‍♂️ How to Speed Up Healing:

  • Avoid repetitive overhead movements.
  • Follow a structured strengthening program.
  • Use ice & anti-inflammatory nutrition to control swelling.
  • Consider regenerative treatments if healing is slow.

If pain persists beyond 3 months, an MRI or further evaluation may be needed to rule out a complete tear.

Can spinal cord stimulation help with nerve pain?

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Yes! Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is one of the most advanced, drug-free treatments for chronic nerve pain—especially for conditions like:

  • Diabetic neuropathy
  • Sciatica & nerve compression
  • Failed back surgery syndrome
  • Chronic leg or arm nerve pain

How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?
1️⃣ A small device is implanted near the spine (similar to a pacemaker).
2️⃣ The device sends mild electrical pulses to block pain signals before they reach the brain.
3️⃣ Instead of pain, patients often feel a gentle tingling sensation or no sensation at all.

💡 Why Is It So Effective?
Reduces or eliminates the need for pain medications.
Can reduce nerve pain by 50-70% in many cases.
Customizable settings allow patients to adjust pain relief.
Minimally invasive & reversible if needed.

If traditional treatments haven’t worked, SCS can provide long-term pain relief without the risks of opioids or major surgery.

What are the latest treatments for diabetic neuropathy in Atlanta?

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Diabetic neuropathy—a nerve condition caused by high blood sugar levels—can lead to burning pain, numbness, and weakness, but new treatments are helping people manage symptoms more effectively.

🔹 Latest & Most Effective Treatments for Diabetic Neuropathy:
1️⃣ Regenerative Medicine (PRP & Stem Cell Therapy) – Helps repair nerve damage and improve function without medications.

2️⃣ Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)Blocks pain signals before they reach the brain, providing long-term relief for severe neuropathy pain.

3️⃣ IV Therapy for Neuropathy – High-dose B vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), and antioxidants can help repair nerves and reduce pain.

4️⃣ Minimally Invasive Nerve Blocks – Injections that reduce nerve inflammation and relieve pain without long-term medication use.

5️⃣ Non-Opioid MedicationsDuloxetine (Cymbalta), pregabalin (Lyrica), and gabapentin help stabilize nerve signals.

6️⃣ Laser & Infrared TherapyImproves circulation and reduces nerve damage progression.

💡 What’s the Best Option?
The best treatment depends on your symptoms and severity. If traditional medications aren’t working, advanced therapies like regenerative medicine or spinal cord stimulation may be life-changing.

In Atlanta, Medici Orthopaedics & Spine offers cutting-edge neuropathy treatments tailored to your needs.

How can I relieve tingling in my hands naturally?

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Tingling in the hands is often caused by nerve compression, circulation issues, or inflammation, and there are several natural ways to reduce it.

💆‍♂️ Best Natural Remedies for Hand Tingling:
1️⃣ Stretch & Move

  • Try wrist flexor and extensor stretches to improve circulation.
  • Shake out your hands if they start to feel numb.

2️⃣ Correct Your Posture

  • If tingling happens while using a computer, ensure your wrists aren’t overextended and use an ergonomic keyboard/mouse.
  • Avoid sleeping with your arms bent under your head, as this can compress nerves.

3️⃣ Support Nerve Health with Nutrition

  • Vitamin B12 (found in eggs, fish, dairy) helps prevent nerve damage.
  • Magnesium & Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) support nerve function.
  • Turmeric & Omega-3s reduce inflammation naturally.

4️⃣ Use Warm Compresses or Hand Massages

  • Heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow, while massage helps reduce tension on nerves.

5️⃣ Consider Acupuncture or Myofascial Release

  • Both treatments can help relieve pinched nerves and circulation issues that cause tingling.

🚨 When to Seek Medical Attention:

  • If tingling is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by weakness, it could be a sign of nerve damage, carpal tunnel, or an underlying condition that needs evaluation.

What’s the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?

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Both bulging discs and herniated discs affect the spine and can cause pain, but they aren’t the same thing. The key difference is how much the disc is damaged and how it affects surrounding nerves.

🟠 Bulging Disc:

  • The outer layer of the disc remains intact, but the disc pushes outward, causing pressure on nearby nerves.
  • Often develops gradually due to aging, poor posture, or repetitive stress.
  • Symptoms may include mild back pain, stiffness, or occasional numbness but are often less severe than a herniated disc.

🔴 Herniated Disc:

  • The outer layer of the disc is torn, allowing the soft inner material to leak out. This can directly irritate nerves and cause more intense pain.
  • Often caused by a sudden injury, lifting improperly, or disc degeneration.
  • Symptoms can include sharp pain, tingling, weakness, or shooting pain (sciatica) that radiates down the arms or legs.

💡 What to Do If You Have a Disc Issue?
Both conditions can often be treated without surgery using:
Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and support the spine.
Interventional spine treatments like epidural injections to reduce inflammation.
Regenerative medicine (PRP, prolotherapy) to promote disc healing.
Minimally invasive treatments if pain persists.

If you’re unsure which condition you have, an MRI or evaluation by a spine specialist can help determine the best treatment plan.

What is the best non-surgical treatment for rotator cuff injuries in Kennesaw?

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A rotator cuff injury can cause significant shoulder pain and limit movement, but surgery isn’t always necessary. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine in Kennesaw, we specialize in non-surgical treatments that help patients recover mobility and reduce pain without downtime.

Some of the most effective non-surgical treatments for rotator cuff injuries include:
Physical Therapy – Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve shoulder stability and function.
Regenerative Medicine (PRP & Stem Cell Therapy) – Using your body’s natural healing abilities, these treatments promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroid Injections – These help reduce pain and inflammation so you can move more comfortably.
Myofascial Release & Sports Massage Therapy – Helps relieve muscle tension and improves mobility in the shoulder.
Shockwave Therapy – A non-invasive treatment that stimulates healing and improves blood flow to the injured area.

In many cases, patients see significant improvement with a combination of physical therapy, injections, and regenerative treatments. However, if your injury is severe and non-surgical treatments aren’t providing relief, we also offer minimally invasive surgical options at our Marietta surgical center.

Schedule an appointment at our Kennesaw clinic to discuss the best treatment plan for your rotator cuff injury. Call us at (770) 545-6404 to get started on your recovery journey.

How does Georgia’s humidity affect arthritis pain?

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If you’ve ever noticed that your joint pain or stiffness worsens on humid days, you’re not imagining it. Georgia’s high humidity levels can exacerbate arthritis symptoms due to changes in barometric pressure, which can cause tissues in the joints to expand, leading to discomfort and inflammation.

Common effects of humidity on arthritis include:
🔹 Increased stiffness and swelling – Moist, humid air can cause joints to feel tighter, making movement more difficult.
🔹 More inflammation and pain – Changes in atmospheric pressure can lead to increased inflammation, especially for those with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
🔹 Reduced hydration in joints – High humidity can cause the body to lose fluids through sweating, reducing the natural lubrication in the joints and increasing friction.

How to Manage Arthritis in Humid Weather:
Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps keep your joints lubricated.
Control indoor humidity – Using an air conditioner or dehumidifier can help regulate moisture levels.
Stay active – Gentle movement, stretching, and physical therapy exercises can prevent stiffness.
Apply cold or warm therapy – Ice packs can reduce inflammation, while heat therapy can help loosen stiff joints.

If humidity is making your arthritis worse, our specialists at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine can help with targeted treatments, including regenerative medicine, physical therapy, and minimally invasive procedures. Call us to explore your options for better arthritis management.

Which hiking trails in Georgia are best for people with joint pain?

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Hiking is a great way to stay active, even if you have joint pain—the key is choosing trails that are gentle on the body. Georgia has several scenic options that offer smooth, well-maintained paths with minimal inclines, making them ideal for people with arthritis, knee pain, or other joint conditions.

Here are some joint-friendly hiking trails in Georgia:
Sweetwater Creek State Park (Red Trail) – Located near Atlanta, this trail follows the creek with mostly flat terrain and shaded areas to keep the temperature down.
Arabia Mountain PATH – A paved, multi-use trail that winds through beautiful rock formations and wildflowers. The smooth surface makes it perfect for those with joint issues.
Big Creek Greenway (Alpharetta & Forsyth Sections) – This long, paved trail is excellent for a low-impact walk or hike. The boardwalk sections help reduce stress on the knees and ankles.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (Island Ford Trail) – Features scenic river views with soft dirt paths that are much easier on the joints compared to rocky terrain.
Gibbs Gardens Trails – This botanical garden offers beautifully maintained walking paths that allow you to enjoy nature without the strain of rough hiking trails.

If you suffer from joint pain, it’s also important to wear proper footwear, use trekking poles for support, and take breaks as needed. Staying active with low-impact activities like these hikes can actually help improve mobility and reduce stiffness over time!

Where can I find a pain management doctor in Marietta?

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If you're looking for expert pain management in Marietta, Medici Orthopaedics & Spine has a state-of-the-art surgical center conveniently located at 792 Church Street, Unit 101. Our pain specialists focus on minimally invasive treatments, combining advanced interventional techniques, physical therapy, and regenerative medicine to help patients manage and reduce chronic pain effectively.

We treat conditions such as:
Spinal pain (neck, mid-back, and lower back issues)
Arthritis and joint pain
Nerve-related conditions like neuropathy and CRPS
Sports injuries and occupational injuries
Post-surgical pain and rehabilitation

Our goal is to provide long-lasting relief without relying on opioids or unnecessary surgery. Whether you're experiencing persistent pain from an old injury or a degenerative condition, our specialists will develop a customized plan to help restore your mobility and quality of life.

Give us a call today at (470) 795-8398 to schedule an appointment at our Marietta pain management center.

Who are the best orthopedic specialists in Atlanta for chronic pain?

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When it comes to chronic pain, finding the right specialist is essential for long-term relief and improved mobility. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and pain management specialists use a multidisciplinary approach to treat the root cause of pain rather than just masking symptoms. Our team, including Dr. Sonny Dosanjh, Dr. Daren Newfield, and Dr. Paul King White, brings decades of experience in minimally invasive procedures, regenerative medicine, and interventional pain management to help patients regain their quality of life.

With clinics in Buckhead, Kennesaw, and Snellville, as well as a state-of-the-art surgical center in Marietta, we provide cutting-edge orthopedic and pain management care. Whether you’re dealing with arthritis, back pain, sports injuries, or nerve-related conditions, our specialists are dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.

If chronic pain is affecting your daily life, schedule an appointment today to explore your treatment options.

Can allergies cause joint inflammation and pain?

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Yes! Seasonal allergies don’t just affect sinuses—they can trigger full-body inflammation, including joint pain.

🌼 How Allergies Contribute to Joint Pain:
1️⃣ Immune System Overreaction – Allergic reactions release histamines and inflammatory cytokines, which can aggravate joint inflammation.
2️⃣ Increased Inflammatory Response – The same immune activation that causes sneezing and congestion can also worsen arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
3️⃣ Dehydration & Histamine Buildup – Allergies can lead to increased histamine levels, which contribute to muscle stiffness and joint pain.

🦴 Who’s Most at Risk?

  • People with autoimmune conditions (RA, lupus, fibromyalgia)
  • Arthritis sufferers (OA, inflammatory arthritis)
  • Those prone to chronic inflammation

💡 How to Reduce Allergy-Related Joint Pain:
Hydrate! Drink plenty of water to flush out histamines and toxins.
Eat Anti-Inflammatory FoodsTurmeric, ginger, omega-3s, leafy greens can help counteract inflammation.
Try Natural AntihistaminesQuercetin (found in apples & onions) and vitamin C can naturally reduce allergic inflammation.
Use HEPA Filters – Indoor air purifiers can reduce allergens that trigger inflammation.
Consider Allergy Testing – If your allergies are severe, working with an allergist can help identify triggers and manage symptoms.

If allergies are worsening your joint pain, a pain management specialist can recommend treatments like anti-inflammatory therapies, prolotherapy, or regenerative medicine to help reduce inflammation at the source.

What’s the best way to manage sciatica on long road trips?

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Sciatica—pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg—can be aggravated by long periods of sitting, making road trips uncomfortable. Here’s how to minimize sciatica pain while traveling:

🚗 Adjust Your Seat for Proper Posture

  • Sit with your back straight and hips slightly above knee level.
  • Use a lumbar support pillow or rolled-up towel to support your lower back.

🔄 Change Positions & Shift Weight – Avoid sitting in one static position for too long—tilt your hips, stretch your legs, and shift your weight often.

🛑 Take Standing & Stretching Breaks – Every hour or two, stop and walk, stretch, or do gentle backbends to release nerve compression.

🦵 Use Sciatica-Friendly Seat Cushions – A wedge cushion or memory foam seat pad reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Bonus Tip: If sciatica is severe, consider spinal decompression therapy, nerve blocks, or spinal cord stimulation for long-term relief.

How can I avoid back pain when spring cleaning?

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Spring cleaning can be tough on your lower back, shoulders, and neck if you’re not using proper movement techniques. Here’s how to protect your spine while getting your home in order:

🛑 Don’t Bend at the Waist – Instead of bending from the lower back, squat down or use a kneeling pad when cleaning lower areas.

📦 Lift with Your Legs, Not Your Back – When moving boxes or furniture, keep your back straight, bend your knees, and hold the object close to your body.

🧹 Use Long-Handled Cleaning Tools – A long duster or mop reduces excessive reaching and bending, preventing unnecessary strain.

🚶‍♀️ Take Frequent Breaks & Stretch – Every 30-45 minutes, pause for gentle stretching or a short walk to avoid stiffness.

💪 Engage Your Core – Activating your core while lifting or vacuuming provides extra spinal support.

Bonus Tip: If you have chronic back pain, massage therapy, myofascial release, or regenerative treatments can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.

What are the best ways to prevent knee pain when hiking in Georgia?

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Hiking in Georgia is an amazing way to enjoy the mountains, waterfalls, and scenic trails, but steep inclines and uneven terrain can put extra stress on your knees. Here’s how to keep your knees strong and pain-free on the trails:

🥾 Wear Supportive Hiking Boots – Look for boots with good ankle support and shock absorption to reduce knee strain on rocky or uneven paths.

🦵 Strengthen Your Knees Before Hiking

  • Squats & Step-Ups to strengthen quads and glutes.
  • Calf Raises to stabilize lower leg muscles.
  • Balance Training to prevent missteps that strain the knee.

🩹 Use Trekking Poles – Poles help reduce impact by up to 25% on downhill descents, taking pressure off the knees.

⬇️ Go Slow on the Downhills – Steep downhill slopes are the hardest on your knees. Use a zig-zag technique instead of going straight down to minimize impact.

🧘 Stretch Before & After Hiking – Focus on stretching hamstrings, quads, and calves to keep the knee joint flexible.

If knee pain is recurring, PRP therapy, prolotherapy, or knee injections can help strengthen tissues and prevent chronic discomfort.

Why does my arthritis feel worse in the spring?

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If your arthritis pain flares up in the spring, you’re not imagining things. Seasonal changes—especially during springtime in Georgia—can have a big impact on joint health and inflammation.

🌡️ Temperature & Barometric Pressure Fluctuations – Spring is known for shifting weather patterns, and as barometric pressure drops (before storms or rain), joint tissues expand, leading to increased stiffness and discomfort.

🌧️ Increased Humidity – Many arthritis sufferers are sensitive to moisture levels. High humidity can increase joint swelling, making movement more painful.

🌻 Seasonal Allergies & Inflammation – Spring allergies trigger the immune system, increasing inflammatory responses throughout the body, which can worsen arthritis pain.

🏃 Increased Activity After Winter – If you’ve been less active in the colder months, suddenly increasing movement without strengthening your joints first can lead to stiffness, soreness, and flare-ups.

💡 How to Reduce Arthritis Pain in Spring:
✅ Stay hydrated to help flush out excess inflammation.
✅ Use compression sleeves for added joint support.
✅ Take anti-inflammatory supplements (turmeric, omega-3s, ginger).
✅ Try gentle stretching and mobility exercises to warm up stiff joints.
✅ If seasonal allergies make pain worse, consider an anti-inflammatory diet and allergy treatments.

If your arthritis is significantly worse this time of year, regenerative medicine, physical therapy, or targeted injections may help manage symptoms more effectively.

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What our patients say

Kevin Madden

Love Dr. Sonny and his practice. I appreciate the time he takes with me. I would rather him run late and take his time with me than rush me through. Pain is not something that’s a pleasure to deal with. I appreciate his knowledge and compassion. The surgical center is great too. Their staff is so caring! Thank you Dr. Sonny!

Gregory Gray

First time visiting the Kennesaw location. All staff were very friendly and very professional. Beautiful and clean facility. Felt like all my concerns were met with compassion and plan moving forward seemed spot on!! Thx guys for making me feel I was in the right hands!!

Ruth-Anne Hayes

Dr. Sonny and his staff are incredibly compassionate. They offer solutions that promote healing and support a healthy lifestyle. I trust them because I see the results in my life but mostly because they care. They know me by name. I cannot recommend this practice enough.

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