Joint pain - Renew Wellness

What is Joint Pain?

Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any of the body's joints. Joints are points where two or more bones meet, such as in the knees, hips, shoulders, and fingers.

Causes

There are several potential causes of joint pain:

• Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints that can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain. The most common types that affect joints are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Injuries: Sprains, strains, bruises, dislocations, and fractures can all lead to joint pain.
• Overuse: Repeated movements or overexertion can irritate joints.
• Diseases: Lupus, gout, infections, and viruses sometimes cause joint inflammation and pain.

Symptoms

Common joint pain symptoms include:

• Soreness and tenderness
• Stiffness, especially first thing in the morning or after resting
• Swelling around joints
• Difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion
• Redness and warmth around the joint

Diagnosis

To diagnose joint pain, doctors ask about symptoms and medical history. They may recommend:

• Physical examination of the painful joint
• Imaging tests like x-rays or MRIs
• Blood tests
• Fluid sample from the joint

Treatments

Options for relieving joint pain include:

• Pain medications like acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or topical creams
• Assistive devices such as knee braces or splints
• Physical therapy
• Weight loss
• Surgery in some cases

Seeking medical attention for unexplained, persistent, or worsening joint pain is recommended so that the correct diagnosis and treatment plan can be made. Leading an active lifestyle with proper joint care can help prevent pain.

For more information on joint pain and treatments, visit Renew Wellness.