Dealing with joint pain can be challenging for many individuals. Fortunately, there are ways in which symptoms can be minimized. Minimizing or completely eliminating symptoms gives people the opportunity to move freely again. This can result in enhanced physical health, better mental health, and overall well-being.
There are many causes of joint pain, many of which are related to injuries. Sometimes, people experience tendon or ligament injuries during sports or regular activities, and this can cause soreness and inflammation in the joints. Tendons extend from muscles and attach to bones, and although they are typically resilient, they can be damaged during falls or collisions. Ligaments attach bones to each other and can also be harmed by impact. A meniscus injury could also lead to joint pain, as the primary function of the meniscus is to cushion and stabilize the knee joint.
Some other causes of joint pain are related to conditions that can arise without warning, such as autoimmune diseases. For example, gout can causes problems with joints. Gout is a form of arthritis in which uric acid builds up in the body and makes crystals in the body’s joints, fluids, and tissues. Osteoarthritis, another common cause of joint pain, occurs when the cartilage lining the joints wears down. It often affects the knees, hands, and hips. Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are other autoimmune diseases that can cause joint stiffness and pain.
While it may be difficult to move around or perform daily functions when burdened with joint pain, the good news is that there are many treatments that could potentially alleviate symptoms.
Surgery, of course, can be effective in certain situations, especially those in which a serious trauma has occurred or when a joint has to be completely replaced due to excess damage. However, surgery is a major treatment procedure so make sure your health has been compromised. Typically, experts recommend that patients try out the least invasive treatment methods whenever possible.
Rest, physical therapy, and over-the-counter medications are usually among the initial treatment recommendations. Rest gives the body time to recuperate, and in some situations, this may be all that’s needed to reduce pain and discomfort. In many cases, though, physical therapy plays a crucial role. It allows people to work the muscles around the joint that’s causing trouble. By doing so, they can gain stability, increase strength, and improve mobility. Over-the-counter medications can reduce inflammation, though they may be better suited for minor joint pain.
For many patients who experience more significant problems, cortisone injections have been found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. Cortisone is a type of steroid that can reduce pain and inflammation, and it gives many patients the relief they’ve been looking for. Cortisone is injected directly into the part of the body that’s causing issues, so it works very methodically. The process of injecting the steroid is very quick and simple, and most individuals are able to resume normal activities immediately after receiving their injections. In many cases, this type of treatment results in noticeable improvement within three to seven days. If necessary, steroid injections may be repeated every three months, but of course, treatment would be prescribed on a case-by-case basis.