Understanding Joint Pain: What It Is, Who It Affects and How It Can Be Treated
4/1/2026
Featuring Cody Hartshorn, M.D., and Corey Mark, M.D., orthopedic surgeons at Lakeside Physicians
Joint pain is one of the most common health complaints among adults, and it affects millions of people every year. Knees, hips, shoulders, elbows and even small joints in the hands and feet can become stiff, swollen or painful over time. For many, joint pain is more than an inconvenience. It can limit mobility, disrupt sleep and make simple daily tasks feel difficult.
Here in Granbury, orthopedic surgeons Cody Hartshorn, M.D., and Corey Mark, M.D., see patients every day who want relief from joint pain and a path back to the lifestyle they enjoy.
What Causes Joint Pain
Joint pain can stem from many sources, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Injury or overuse
- Inflammatory conditions
- Age related changes
- Lifestyle factors
“Many people try to push through pain or chalk it up to getting older,” says Dr. Hartshorn. “But joint pain is not something you have to simply accept. We have many ways to help people feel better and stay active.”
Who Joint Pain Affects
Anyone can experience joint pain, but certain groups are more likely to develop it:
- Adults over 50
- People with previous sports or work injuries
- Individuals who carry extra weight
- Those with autoimmune conditions
- People who perform repetitive tasks
- Individuals with a family history of arthritis
Dr. Mark adds, “We see athletes, retirees, ranchers, teachers and young parents. Joint pain does not discriminate. The difference comes from getting evaluated early so mobility can be preserved.”
How Joint Pain Is Treated
Treatment may include:
- Conservative, nonsurgical care
- Physical therapy
- Anti inflammatory medications
- Joint friendly exercise programs
- Activity modification
- Weight management
- Bracing or supportive devices
- Injection therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
- Hyaluronic acid injections
- Surgical treatment when needed
- Knee and hip joint replacement
- Shoulder repair and replacement
- Arthroscopic surgery
- Procedures for severe arthritis or structural damage
“Our goal is to find the least invasive option that will give the greatest long term benefit,” says Dr. Mark. “And when surgery is the right choice, it can truly give people their quality of life back.”
When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon
Consider an evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent joint stiffness
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or lifting
- Pain that interferes with sleep
- Joint swelling or grinding sensations
- Limited range of motion
- Pain lasting more than a few weeks
Residents of Hood County do not have to travel far for orthopedic care. Doctors Cody Hartshorn, M.D., and Corey Mark, M.D.. at Lakeside Physicians treat a range of joint conditions.
To schedule an appointment with Lakeside Physicians Orthopedics, call:
(817) 579-2020
Take a Free Online Joint Pain Assessment
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