Why joint pain occurs and when to sound the alarm

Joint pain is familiar to millions of people worldwide. It can appear after physical exertion, injury, or prolonged time in one position, and sometimes becomes the first sign of a serious illness. More details about why joint pain occurs, in which cases you should see a doctor, and how to maintain joint health for a long time will be told by UNN.

Why joint pain occurs

Joints provide mobility to the human body. They connect bones to each other and work in close interaction with muscles, tendons, and ligaments, but when disruptions occur in this complex system, a person may feel pain. Among the most common causes of pain, experts name inflammatory and degenerative changes in the joints and surrounding tissues, consequences of injuries, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, diseases of the nervous and endocrine systems, as well as excessive physical exertion. Often, unpleasant sensations can also be associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, arthrosis, osteoarthritis, or gout. In addition, in some cases, joint pain accompanies autoimmune diseases, allergic syndromes, and other pathological processes in the body. Heredity also plays a separate role. If there have been cases of joint diseases in the family, the risk of developing similar problems may be higher.

Who is at risk

Anyone can experience joint pain, but there are categories of people for whom such a problem is more likely. The risk group includes, in particular, elderly people, professional athletes, individuals with excess body weight, pregnant women, as well as those who lead a sedentary lifestyle or work sitting down. At the same time, the risk also increases in those whose professional activity is associated with constant repetitive movements. For example, prolonged work at a computer can create additional strain on the hands and wrists.

What symptoms may indicate joint problems

Pain is not always the only manifestation of the disease, as it is often accompanied by other symptoms that help understand the nature of the problem. Among them are morning stiffness of movements, a feeling of numbness or tingling, decreased joint mobility, a feeling of "stiffness," swelling, redness of the skin in the joint area, increased temperature, and pain during movement or touch.

In some cases, a person may even notice that it becomes difficult to perform usual actions. For example, when the knee joints are affected, it becomes harder to walk or climb stairs, and problems with the shoulder joints can complicate lifting objects. If the disease progresses, destruction of cartilage tissue and joint deformation are possible.

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Why different joints hurt

The causes of pain may differ depending on which area is affected.

For example, pain in the fingers and hands is often associated with inflammatory processes, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be provoked by occupational loads involving multiple repetitive movements. Pain in the shoulder and elbow joints often occurs after blows, falls, dislocations, or other injuries. In such cases, inflammation of the tendons or joint capsules may develop. And if the pain is localized in one joint of the arm or leg, the cause is sometimes gout. This is a disease associated with the accumulation of uric acid and the formation of crystals in the joints, which provoke inflammation. The hip joint often suffers due to gradual destruction of cartilage tissue, and this is especially relevant for older people. In contrast, knee joints often hurt after injuries, prolonged physical exertion, or due to an incorrect approach to training.

When not to delay a visit to the doctor

Sometimes pain goes away on its own within a few days. However, there are situations when consultation with a specialist is necessary. You should see a doctor if:

• the pain does not go away for a long time;

• swelling or redness has appeared;

• body temperature has increased;

• difficulties with joint mobility have arisen;

• the pain interferes with sleep;

• weakness, loss of appetite, or weight loss is observed;

• morning stiffness lasts more than an hour after waking up.

Medical attention is also needed after injuries, dislocations, or fractures.

How the cause of pain is determined

To choose the right treatment, the doctor first clarifies the circumstances of the pain's onset and takes a medical history. Additionally, during the consultation, the specialist may specify which joints are bothering the patient, how long ago the symptoms appeared, whether there were injuries or overexertion, and whether there are cases of similar diseases among relatives. If necessary, additional examinations are prescribed. These include laboratory tests, X-rays, ultrasound examination of the joints, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. In some cases, a study of the joint fluid may be performed.

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How joint pain is treated

The treatment strategy depends on the cause of the disease and the degree of joint damage.

To reduce pain and inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, special ointments, creams, or gels may be used. In some cases, doctors prescribe glucocorticoids, antibiotics, or other medications depending on the established diagnosis. Also, an important part of treatment is limiting the load on the affected joint and physical rehabilitation. Complex therapy may include physical therapy, massages, and physiotherapeutic procedures. However, in cases of significant joint damage, even surgical treatment may be required.

What will help maintain joint health

It is impossible to completely protect yourself from joint diseases, but the risk of their development can be reduced. Experts advise maintaining a normal body weight, avoiding injuries and excessive strain, moving regularly, and paying attention to physical activity. An important role is played, of course, by a balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals. It is also recommended to give up bad habits and not to self-medicate when prolonged or severe pain occurs. Joints endure significant loads every day, so their condition largely depends on a person's lifestyle. Therefore, the sooner a problem is detected and help is sought, the greater the chances of maintaining mobility and avoiding serious complications in the future.

ATTENTION! This material is for informational purposes only. If you have health concerns, consult a doctor.