Joint is discomfort or soreness that happens in any joint in your body. Joints connect bones and provide support and help you move. Injuries, aging, weight, and medical conditions are common causes of joint pain. Joint pain can affect any joint in your body, but the most affected are the hip, shoulder, knee, hand, and feet. Sometimes joint pain can be severe, limiting movement or preventing you from doing your regular duties.
You can relieve joint pain at home, but if the symptoms do not improve within five days, consult your Yancey Pain & Spine specialist. Joint pain treatments aim to relieve your symptoms and restore functioning. People associate joint pain with several myths and misconceptions, including:
Exercise Worsens Joint Pain
Exercise does not worsen joint pain. Your healthcare provider may recommend certain activities to help strengthen your joints and maintain your range of motion. Your specialist may refer you to a physical therapist to teach on the best exercises for your joint or create an exercise program for your joint pain.
Avoid vigorous activities like running that may worsen your symptoms. Depending on the cause and location of your joint pain, your therapist can recommend mild exercises like walking or swimming.
Arthritis is the Only Cause of Joint Pain
There are other causes of joint pain besides arthritis. Joint pain can result from many factors, including fractures, infections, tendonitis, bursitis, gout, or injuries. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that causes joint pain. It mainly occurs in older adults due to the tear and wear of cartilage resulting from aging. Rheumatoid arthritis also causes joint pain, but it is less common.
Heat Pads Relieve Joint Pain Better than Cold Compressors
Both heat and cold therapies can help ease joint pain. You can get relief from alternating them. Doctors recommend you do not use heat pads the first few days after trauma until your swelling disappears.
After swelling ceases, you can switch therapies. Cold reduces swelling, while heat eases pain. Doctors recommend you not to use either of the remedies for more than twenty minutes at a session. You can use heat or cold therapy three to four times a day.
You Cannot Recover from Joint Pain
There are many treatments for joint pain. The treatment option your doctor recommends depends on the cause of your joint pain and symptoms. Medications, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, supportive aids, and weight loss are common treatments for joint pain. Your doctor can suggest surgery if your joint pain persists or other treatment techniques do not relieve your symptoms.
Severe Pain Means You Need Urgent Medical Care
Joint pain ranges from mild to severe. People assume extreme joint pain indicates a serious condition. Sometimes, severe joint pain may be an indicator of a serious health issue. For example, a complete fracture needs emergency care. In some patients, extreme pain can occur in less complicated situations like sudden twisting. If your pain does not ease with home remedies within five days, consult your doctor.
Joint pain can result from injuries, medical conditions, or aging effects. There are many myths and misconceptions about joint pain but do not let them prevent you from seeking medical attention. Schedule an appointment at Yancey Pain & Spine for joint pain treatment to regain your range of motion.
