What is Joint Pain?
Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any of the body's joints. Common causes of joint pain include:
- Arthritis - inflammation of the joints from conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, etc. This leads to breakdown of cartilage and bone over time.
- Injuries - sprains, fractures, dislocations can damage tissues around joints.
- Medical conditions - lupus, gout, infections, etc.
The most commonly affected joints are those in the knees, hips, back, hands, and shoulders. Symptoms besides pain can include:
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Redness and swelling around joints
- Decreased range of motion
So when should you see a doctor for joint pain? Seek medical care if pain:
- Is severe or persists for over 2 weeks
- Causes difficulty with daily activities
- Is accompanied by swelling/redness
Diagnosis begins with a physician reviewing medical history and performing a physical exam. Further testing may include:
- Blood tests to check for autoimmune diseases
- Imaging tests - x-rays, MRI scans to visualize joint damage
- Arthrocentesis - removing fluid with a needle for analysis
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and slowing disease progression:
- Pain medications - acetaminophen, NSAIDs, steroids
- Lifestyle changes - weight loss, exercise, diet
- Physical therapy
- Assistive devices - cane, braces, splints
- If arthritis - possible joint injections, surgery
The takeaway? Joint pain has many causes, from injuries to chronic conditions like arthritis. See a physician if in doubt, as early treatment can help mitigate permanent joint damage over time.