Joint Pain

What are some common causes of joint pain?

You have joints throughout your body, some of which go through more daily wear-and-tear than others. Each joint consists of a network of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. A problem with any of these components can cause joint pain.

Inflammation is a primary source of joint pain. Joints don’t have significant space to accommodate swelling, so any change within those small spaces places pressure on nerve tissue, triggering pain signals.

Some of the common causes of joint pain include:

• Traumatic injury
• Sports injury
• Joint degeneration
• Arthritis
• Infections
• Bursitis
• Tendonitis

These are just some factors that can cause or contribute to joint pain. Sometimes, there is no clear cause, even though you may experience significant discomfort.

When should I seek help with joint pain?

Everyone experiences occasional joint pain, especially after strenuous activity or a long day on their feet. A day or two of self-care is usually all that’s needed to find relief from occasional joint pain.

If your pain is severe, or if it lingers after several days of self-care efforts, it may be time to schedule a diagnostic exam. Letting joint pain go untreated can place additional strain on the affected joint, allowing the condition to worsen.

Joint pain also makes it hard to stay active. Avoiding physical activity can quickly lead to various health issues linked to a sedentary lifestyle. Taking a proactive approach to managing joint pain can reduce your risk of other health issues.

What are some treatments that can relieve joint pain?

There are many different ways to address joint pain. Your specific treatment plan depends on the cause of your discomfort and your overall health and wellness.

For example, people who are overweight often struggle with joint pain because their joints are under undue stress and strain. A customized weight loss program and a period of physical therapy might be necessary to find relief.

If an injury or sprain causes joint pain, treatment often focuses on temporarily avoiding weight-bearing on the affected joint. Braces, crutches, and other devices might help, and over-the-counter pain medications can manage discomfort.

However, if arthritis is the cause of your joint pain, treatment options might include steroid injections, physical therapy, or assistive devices. Dr. Schaaf can refer you to a specialist if your joint pain requires specialized or complex care.

When you’re ready to learn more, book a visit online or call Mountain Desert Health to check appointment availability.