Joint Pain and Stiffness? Your Next Steps in Miami, FL

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Joint Pain and Stiffness? Your Next Steps in Miami, FL

If you’ve been dealing with joint pain and stiffness—especially if it’s worse in the morning or after resting—and you’re noticing swelling or puffiness in your hands, it’s completely understandable to feel concerned. These symptoms can make everyday movements harder and may leave you wondering if it’s something serious or just a normal part of aging. You’re not alone in searching for answers, and the good news is that help is available.

This post is here to guide you through the next steps you can take: who to see for your symptoms, what kinds of tests and procedures might be involved, and an idea of the costs you could expect if you’re seeking care in Miami, FL. Our goal is to give you clear, reassuring steps so you can get the professional care you need.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Miami, FL

Based on your joint pain and stiffness, a few types of doctors could be good places to start:

  • Rheumatologists: Specialists focused on diagnosing and treating joint, muscle, and autoimmune conditions. They’re experts in conditions that cause joint pain and swelling.
  • Internal Medicine Doctors: These doctors manage a wide range of adult health conditions and can perform initial assessments, order tests, and provide referrals to specialists.
  • Family Practice Doctors: Generalists who treat patients of all ages, family practice doctors can evaluate your symptoms, provide treatment, and coordinate care if you need specialist input.

Choosing the right provider depends on your specific symptoms and preferences, but any of these options are valid starting points.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Below is an overview of common procedures and visits related to joint pain in Miami, along with estimated self-pay costs to help you plan.

Visit with a Rheumatology Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A detailed appointment to review your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and discuss your medical history. This visit helps the doctor understand the cause of your joint issues and plan next steps.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $204.48 (typically ranges from $153.36 to $255.60)
    This estimate is based on 54 rheumatology providers in the Miami area.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: This procedure removes fluid from a swollen joint or injects medication directly into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. It can also help diagnose certain joint conditions.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $121.62 (typically ranges from $91.21 to $152.02)
    This estimate is based on 29 providers.

  • Procedure: Injection into tendon or ligament (CPT Code: 20550)
    Purpose: Medication is injected into a specific tendon or ligament to relieve pain and inflammation at the source.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $96.88 (typically ranges from $72.66 to $121.10)
    This estimate is based on 10 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of shoulder, minimum of 2 views (CPT Code: 73030)
    Purpose: Takes images of the shoulder joint to check for bone damage or arthritis.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $58.99 (typically ranges from $44.24 to $73.74)
    This estimate is based on 7 providers.

  • Procedure: X-ray of hand, minimum of 3 views (CPT Code: 73130)
    Purpose: Images of your hand joints to detect arthritis, injury, or other causes of swelling and pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $72.99 (typically ranges from $54.74 to $91.24)
    This estimate is based on 6 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A thorough exam to understand your symptoms and health status, with the ability to order blood tests or imaging if needed.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $208.26 (typically ranges from $156.19 to $260.32)
    This estimate is based on 464 providers.

  • Procedure: Insertion of needle into vein for blood collection (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: Blood sample collection to test for markers of inflammation or other causes of joint pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.82 (typically ranges from $9.61 to $16.02)
    Based on 217 providers.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: A blood test checking red and white blood cells along with platelets to identify infections or anemia that might relate to your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $11.43 (typically ranges from $8.57 to $14.30)
    Based on 6 providers.

  • Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c level (CPT Code: 83036)
    Purpose: Blood test to check blood sugar control, as diabetes can sometimes contribute to joint pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $15.34 (typically ranges from $11.41 to $19.27)
    Based on 7 providers.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A general assessment of your joints and overall health, with the option to perform tests or refer you to a specialist.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $205.22 (typically ranges from $153.91 to $256.52)
    Based on 306 providers.

  • Procedure: Complete ultrasound scan of joint (CPT Code: 76881)
    Purpose: Imaging using ultrasound to check for inflammation, fluid buildup, or tendon damage without radiation.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $99.73 (typically ranges from $65.64 to $133.82)
    Based on 3 providers.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: Similar to rheumatology, to diagnose or treat swelling and pain by removing fluid or injecting medicine.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $110.00 (typically ranges from $82.50 to $137.50)
    Based on 6 providers.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: Blood test as explained above.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $16.88 (typically ranges from $9.13 to $24.64)
    Based on 5 providers.

  • Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c level (CPT Code: 83036)
    Purpose: Blood sugar testing as explained above.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $18.40 (typically ranges from $11.42 to $25.38)
    Based on 12 providers.

Taking action can help you find relief and answers. Here’s what to do next:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Reach out to a Rheumatologist, Internal Medicine, or Family Practice doctor in Miami to discuss your joint pain and stiffness.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, including when they happen, how long they last, and any other concerning signs like swelling or decreased movement.
  3. Discuss Costs: When booking your appointment, ask the office about their fees and how they compare to the estimates shared here to avoid surprises.
  4. Follow Their Guidance: Your provider may recommend tests or treatments based on your visit—following up is important.
  5. Stay Positive: Remember, consulting a healthcare provider is the right step toward improving your joint health and quality of life.

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 provides general information about joint pain and typical healthcare options in Miami, FL. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.