Imperial, California - Make an appointment with your doctor if your joint pain is accompanied by:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness and warmth around the joint

See a doctor immediately if your joint pain is caused by an injury and is accompanied by:

• Joint deformity
• Inability to use the joint
• Intense pain
• Sudden swelling

Self-care
When caring for mild joint pain at home, follow these tips:

• Try an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve).
• Avoid using your joint in ways that cause or worsen pain.
• Apply an ice pack to your painful joint for 15 to 20 minutes a few times each day.