Joint pain

What is joint pain?

Joint pain, also known as arthralgia, is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. It manifests as soreness, aching, stiffness, or even sharp pain in the joints - where two or more bones meet.

Some common causes of joint pain include:

• Arthritis
  
  
  • Osteoarthritis - most common, caused by wearing down of cartilage
  
  
  • Rheumatoid arthritis - autoimmune condition
  
  


• Injuries - sprains, fractures


• Infection
• Tendinitis- inflammation of tendons

Joint pain can range from mild to severe, and from short-lived to chronic. It may:

• Affect the knees, hips, hands, ankles, shoulders, or spine


• Appear gradually or suddenly


• Cause difficulty/limitation moving the joint


• Sometimes cause joint swelling, redness, or warmth

How is joint pain diagnosed and treated?

Seeing a doctor is key to determine the cause and proper treatment. They'll ask about symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and examine the painful joint(s). Tests like x-rays, MRI, blood tests help diagnose it.

Treatment options include:

• Pain medications


• Ice/heat pads


• Joint injections


• Physiotherapy


• Losing weight if overweight


• Surgery in some cases


• Supplements like glucosamine/chondroitin