Millions of people suffer from joint pain every day, from a minor annoyance to debilitating pain. Several factors that can contribute to joint pain. Old injuries, joint replacement, tendinitis, and arthritis are some of the most common causes of joint pain.
Old Injuries
Old injuries can flare-up and cause pain later in life. Some common causes of injuries include car accidents, slip and fall accidents, and medical procedures that didn’t heal properly. To relieve pain, try an over the counter anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs). If that doesn’t work, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication, a muscle relaxant, or a cortisone shot. You can help ward off joint pain by exercising regularly, losing weight, using proper sports gear, and reducing stress on joints by using a brace (i.e., ankle brace or knee brace).
Joint Replacements
Soreness after joint replacement surgery is expected. However, chronic pain indicates a larger issue. Falling after surgery could cause the new joint to fracture or to dislocate. Slippage of the new joint, an infection, fluid build-up, or a blood clot could also cause pain. If you notice new swelling, new pain while resting, or redness or warmth at the joint, call the doctor. Depending on the cause of the pain, the doctor may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics, reset the dislocated joint, or prescribe anti-clotting agents.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is caused when the fiber-like tissues that connect the muscles to the bones become inflamed, usually from overuse or overloading the joints. Ice the injured area for twenty minutes a day, three times a day, and use over the counter anti-inflammatory medication for pain. You can help prevent tendinitis by warming up before strenuous activities, gradually increasing exercise level, wearing proper shoes, and paying attention to your performance techniques.
Arthritis
Arthritis is the most common cause of joint pain, affecting millions of people worldwide. Inflammation or a break-down of cartridge in one or more joints can cause pain and stiffness. Common triggers of arthritis are family history, age, previous injuries, and obesity. Doctors usually treat arthritis pain with an anti-inflammatory. Other ways to mitigate pain are to exercise, to use hot or cold therapy, to lose weight, and to try adding fatty acids or fish oil supplements to your diet.
Joint pain can disrupt your daily life. In most cases, it can be treated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. However, if the pain worsens or if you notice swelling, redness, or warmth at the site or if the pain lasts for over seven days, see your doctor as it could be something more serious.
If you aren’t sure when to visit an emergency room, you aren’t alone. Check out this article to see where you should go when you need help.
