Joint pain is a common problem in old people and is generally referred to as a discomfort in the joints. Some types of joint-pain are short-term and develop due to exertion or if extra pressure is put on a joint. But some types of join-pain require long-term treatment.
Joint pain causes:
Age is a big factor when it comes to joint pain. And while determining the cause, the age of the patient must be kept in mind. Children suffer from joint-pain for many different reasons than an adult. Injury can be a cause while joint pain can also be caused by an issue in the surrounding bone, ligament, lining of joint, tendon or muscle that is around the joint. Pain felt in the nerves can also result in pain in joints.
In Adults, arthritis, Gout, joint dislocation, Housemaid’s knee, Scleroderma, Fibromyalgia, Knee Ligament Injuries, Frozen Shoulder can be the common causes of joint pain.
Signs and symptoms:
Apart from the obvious symptom that is the pain, redness, tenderness, swelling of the joints, stiffness, and weakness may also accompany joint-pain. It restricts your range of movement.
When to see a doctor?
In case of an immediate injury, followed by a sharp pain as well as redness and tenderness around the joint, swelling as well as warmth, it is advisable to see the doctor early on. Immediate need for a doctor arises when the injury also causes joint deformity or if you are unable to move the joint at all. Despite no injury, if you are suffering from joint pain for two weeks and simple pain reliever gel or ointment has not helped, then also you should see a doctor.
What are the treatment options for joint pain?
If your joint pain is temporary and caused by an injury, simple over-the-counter pain medicines and self-management like using reliever gels to decrease pain is enough. You will have to take precautions and not put too much pressure on the joint for a while so as to not aggravate the pain. But ensure that you do remain physically active so the joint does not become stiff.
If an underlying cause is found for the joint pain, the treatment will be as needed. If arthritis is the cause, anti-inflammatory medicines would be prescribed by the doctor along with regular physiotherapy. In case of a disease of cartilage, ligament or the bone, treatment may require surgery.
Follow-up in case of joint pain is very important since continued monitoring will ensure to avoid any further deterioration of the condition.
Can joint pain be prevented?
When it comes to joint pain due to injuries, it can be avoided in the same way injuries can, by wearing proper gear while doing any intense physical work. If it is sports, proper sports gear should be worn. Joint pain due to diseases is not something that can be avoided. Timely medical intervention can ensure that the problem does not get repeated again and again.
