Joint Pain
Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any of the body's joints. Joints are places where two bones meet, such as the knees, hips, elbows, wrists, and fingers.
Causes
There are many potential causes of joint pain:
- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints from conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout
- Injuries: Sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations can all lead to pain
- Overuse: Repeated movements or overexertion can irritate joints
- Infection: Bacterial or viral joint infections cause inflammation and pain
- Autoimmune disorders: Diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis cause joint pain
- Mechanical issues: Misaligned joints or loose bodies in the joints create pain
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of joint pain include:
- Soreness, aching, stiffness, throbbing
- Swelling, redness, warmth around the joint
- Difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion
- Popping, cracking, or grinding sounds or sensations
Diagnosis
To diagnose the cause of joint pain, doctors typically:
- Ask about medical history and symptoms
- Conduct a physical exam to assess the painful joint's appearance, flexibility, etc
- Order imaging tests like x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans
- Analyze blood or fluid samples from the joint
Treatment
Depending on the cause, joint pain treatment options include:
- Pain medications like NSAIDs, acetaminophen, steroids injections
- Physical therapy and exercises
- Assistive devices like splints, braces, or canes
- Surgery for injuries or joint replacements
- Lifestyle changes to reduce strain on joints
The type of doctor who treats joint pain can include primary care physicians, rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and sports medicine specialists. Seeking proper treatment can help manage joint pain and improve mobility.