Joint pain is one of the most common complaints among people of all ages. It can be a symptom of temporary overload or a serious medical condition. Timely identification of the causes and proper treatment helps avoid complications and return to an active life. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will examine why joint pain occurs, how it is diagnosed, treated, and how to prevent it.
Main Causes of Joint Pain
Joint pain can arise suddenly or develop gradually. Depending on the nature of the pain, you can determine the likely cause.
Most Common Factors:
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Gout – accumulation of uric acid in the joints
- Mechanical injuries: dislocations, sprains, bruises
- Infectious diseases (e.g., viral infections)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Hormonal changes (especially in women)
- Sedentary lifestyle
When to Be Concerned:
- Pain lasts more than a week
- The joint is swollen or red
- There is morning stiffness
- Pain occurs even at rest
- Loss of mobility
How Joint Problems Are Diagnosed
Proper diagnosis is the key to effective treatment. You should consult a rheumatologist, general practitioner, or orthopedist.
Main Diagnostic Methods:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Blood tests for inflammatory markers
- X-rays
- Joint ultrasound
- MRI for suspected internal injuries
- Joint puncture (if gout or infection is suspected)
Accurate diagnostics help detect both inflammatory and degenerative changes in tissues.
How to Treat Joint Pain
Treatment methods depend on the cause of the pain. Sometimes it’s enough to change your lifestyle, while in other cases, long-term therapy is required.
Main Treatment Approaches:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physiotherapy
- Therapeutic exercise
- Chondroprotectors to support cartilage tissue
- Topical treatments — ointments, gels
- Diet changes and adequate hydration
- In some cases — hyaluronic acid or corticosteroid injections
Folk Remedies for Pain Relief
Although folk remedies cannot replace medication, they can complement it.
Popular Methods:
- Cabbage or burdock compresses
- Tinctures from marsh cinquefoil or horse chestnut
- Baths with sea salt or baking soda
- Rubbing with alcohol-based infusions
Be sure to consult a doctor before using folk remedies.
Physical Activity and Rehabilitation
Proper physical activity helps reduce pain, improve circulation, and strengthen the muscles around joints.
Recommended Activities:
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Walking
- Stretching
- Exercise under the supervision of a rehabilitation therapist
Important: avoid excessive loading, especially during acute pain.
Preventing Joint Pain
Prevention is the best way to avoid serious complications and maintain mobility in old age.
What to Do Regularly:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat a balanced diet
- Consume foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Avoid sitting in the same position for too long
- Take breaks during work
Comparison of Main Types of Joint Pain
| Type of Pain | Cause | Nature of Pain | Most Affected Joints | Recommended Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Injury, overload | Sharp, localized | Knees, elbows, shoulders | Rest, cold compresses, NSAIDs |
| Inflammatory | Arthritis, infection | Constant, aching | Fingers, wrists, knees | Anti-inflammatory therapy, physiotherapy |
| Metabolic (Gout) | Excess uric acid | Sudden, intense | Big toe, knees | Diet, medications, pain relief |
| Autoimmune | Rheumatoid arthritis | Chronic, symmetrical | Wrists, fingers, hands | Immunosuppressive therapy |
When to See a Doctor
Do not ignore joint pain, especially if it lasts more than a few days. Prevention and early diagnosis are the best investments in your health.
Seek Immediate Help If:
- Sharp pain appears without a clear cause
- You have a fever or signs of infection
- The joint is red, warm to the touch
- Joint deformity has appeared
- You have difficulty moving
Living With Chronic Joint Pain
Chronic pain is a challenge that requires patience and a comprehensive approach. It’s important to have the support of your family, doctor, and a properly selected care program.
What Can Help Reduce Discomfort:
- Following the treatment plan
- Staying physically active
- Massage, warm baths
- Psychological support
Earlier we wrote about how to properly provide first aid for hand burns at home.