What Is Joint Pain?
Joint pain is discomfort, aches, or soreness in any of the body's joints - the points where bones meet. It can affect one or multiple joints and range from mild to severe.
Common Causes
-
Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear)
- Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune)
- Gout
-
Injury or Trauma
- Sprains and strains
- Sports injuries
- Overuse injuries
-
Other Medical Conditions
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Fibromyalgia
Risk Factors
- Advanced age
- Obesity
- Previous joint injuries
- Occupational hazards
- Genetic predisposition
Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider may use:
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI)
- Blood tests
- Joint fluid analysis
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatments
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice/heat therapy
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Physical therapy
Medical Interventions
- Prescription medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- Viscosupplementation
- Surgery (in severe cases)
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Use proper posture
- Protect joints during activities
- Stay physically active
When to Seek Medical Care
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe pain
- Significant swelling
- Limited mobility
- Pain lasting > 3 days
- Signs of infection
Living with Joint Pain
Manage symptoms through:
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Stress management
- Assistive devices when needed
- Following medical advice