Joint Pain and Stiffness? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Fort Worth, TX

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Joint Pain and Stiffness? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Fort Worth, TX

Waking up or sitting for some time to find your fingers, knees, and ankles hurting and feeling stiff can be frustrating—and worrying. When multiple joints feel sore and swollen, it’s natural to wonder what’s going on and if you need to see a doctor. You are not alone, and it’s very good that you are reaching out for information about your symptoms.

This post is here to help guide you through understanding potential reasons behind your joint pain and stiffness, who you might want to see for a professional evaluation, and what initial healthcare visits and tests could cost you in Fort Worth, TX. Knowing these next steps can help ease your worry and empower you to get the care you need.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Fort Worth, TX

Based on your joint pain and stiffness affecting multiple areas, there are a few types of healthcare providers who would be good places to start:

  • Rheumatologists: These specialists focus on diseases that affect joints, muscles, and bones, such as arthritis. They are experts in diagnosing and treating chronic joint inflammation and autoimmune conditions.

  • Internal Medicine Doctors: These doctors manage a broad range of adult health conditions, including complex chronic diseases. They can evaluate your symptoms, order relevant tests, and coordinate specialized care if necessary.

  • Family Practice Physicians: Family doctors provide general care for patients of all ages. They can assess your joint pain and stiffness, start initial tests, and refer you to specialists if needed.

Each provider type can help you identify the cause of your symptoms and start you on an appropriate treatment plan.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s what a first visit and initial testing might look like with each type of provider in Fort Worth, including estimated self-pay costs for those paying out of pocket.

Visit with a Rheumatologist

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: This visit is where the rheumatologist will review your symptoms, examine your joints, and discuss your medical history. It’s your chance to explain what you are experiencing and get expert guidance.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.02 (typically ranges from $145.51 to $242.52)
    This estimate is based on 22 rheumatology providers in the Fort Worth area.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: A simple blood test to check overall health and look for signs of inflammation or infection. It helps in identifying causes of joint problems.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.05 (ranges from $9.04 to $15.06)
    Based on 5 providers offering this test.

  • Procedure: Measurement of c-reactive protein (CRP) for inflammation (CPT Code: 86140)
    Purpose: This test detects inflammation levels in your body, which is often elevated with joint issues. It helps confirm if inflammation might be causing your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $8.03 (ranges from $6.02 to $10.04)
    Available from 5 providers.

  • Procedure: Rheumatoid factor level (CPT Code: 86431)
    Purpose: This blood test looks for antibodies that may indicate rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune disorders. It’s a key test when joint stiffness and swelling are present.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $8.78 (ranges from $6.59 to $10.98)
    Offered by 3 providers locally.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from a large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: Sometimes fluid needs to be taken from swollen joints to diagnose infections or relieve pressure. This procedure is done only when necessary.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $103.04 (ranges from $77.28 to $128.80)
    Provided by 6 specialists nearby.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: This appointment allows the doctor to assess your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and start diagnostic testing. Good for comprehensive care and coordination.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.37 (typically ranges from $145.78 to $242.96)
    Based on 224 providers in Fort Worth.

  • Procedure: Red blood cell sedimentation rate test (CPT Code: 85652)
    Purpose: A blood test to detect inflammation in your body, often elevated with joint issues. It helps your doctor understand if inflammation is present.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $4.79 (ranges from $3.17 to $6.40)
    Available from 9 providers.

  • Procedure: Rheumatoid factor level (CPT Code: 86431)
    Purpose: Detects antibodies linked to autoimmune joint diseases. Important for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $18.34 (ranges from $6.67 to $30.00)
    Provided by 1 provider locally.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: Assesses overall health and signs of infection or inflammation.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.16 (ranges from $9.12 to $15.20)
    Offered by 43 providers.

  • Procedure: Insertion of needle into vein for blood draw (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: This procedure is needed to collect blood samples for tests.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.99 (ranges from $9.74 to $16.24)
    Based on 83 providers.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A broad evaluation where your family doctor listens to your symptoms and starts initial testing. Often the first step in care.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $192.38 (ranges from $144.29 to $240.48)
    Based on 350 providers in Fort Worth.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: Checks for infections and inflammation that might explain joint problems.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.14 (ranges from $9.11 to $15.18)
    Provided by 39 providers.

  • Procedure: Creatinine level test (CPT Code: 82570)
    Purpose: Checks kidney function and muscle health, important for overall assessment.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $9.05 (ranges from $6.08 to $12.02)
    Offered by 39 providers.

  • Procedure: Insertion of needle into vein for blood draw (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: Blood collection needed for the above tests.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.94 (ranges from $9.71 to $16.18)
    Available at 131 providers.

The best step you can take for your joint pain and stiffness is to schedule an appointment with a qualified healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and guide you to the right care.

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a rheumatologist, internal medicine doctor, or family practice physician in Fort Worth to discuss your joint symptoms.

  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down all your symptoms, when they started, how they affect your daily life, and any questions or concerns you have.

  3. Discuss Costs: When you call to book your appointment, ask about fees and confirm what you might expect to pay. The cost estimates provided here can help you prepare financially but may vary.

  4. Stay Positive: Taking the step to seek professional advice is empowering. Early evaluation and diagnosis can lead to better management of your joint health and overall well-being.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.