Arthritis leg pain is generally associated with specific joints – whether legs, knees or hips. When the cartilage around the joint collapses, pain, stiffness and swelling can occur. Arthritis joints can also be hot and have limited movement.

If the joint pain lasts for more than three days, see a doctor. Also get medical help for:

• Joint pain that interferes with daily activities
• A swollen joint
• A joint that is warm to the touch
• Difficulty moving the joint
• A fever with joint pain
• Unintentional weight loss

Patients should follow the instructions below to determine if they should choose an orthopedic doctor or rheumatologist for arthritis and joint pain.

Patients may need an orthopedic doctor if they have:

• Joint or musculoskeletal pain that started after an injury
• Gradual progressive pain in the hip or knee that is worse with weight
• Joint pain that is severe and affects function
• Moderate or advanced arthritis of the knee or hip
• Previous unsuccessful treatment for joint pain
• They were informed by their doctor that the joints may need to be replaced

Patients may need a rheumatologist if they have:

Pain that involves many joints

• New joint pain not related to injury
• Joint or musculoskeletal pain associated with morning stiffness, fever, fatigue, rash or chest pain
• Joint pain associated with back pain
• Joint pain and psoriasis
• Muscle pain with or without other symptoms
• New headaches or muscle aches and are over 50 years old
• Back pain with or without leg pain
• Unexplained, persistent symptoms such as fever, sweating or weight loss