Joint pain - Hormone Harmony Clinic

What is Joint Pain?

Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, and soreness in any of the body's joints. Common causes of joint pain include:

• Arthritis - inflammation and swelling of the joints. The most common types that cause joint pain are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Injuries - sprains, fractures, and dislocations can lead to acute and chronic joint pain.
• Mechanical issues - misaligned joints or bones, loose ligaments, and muscle imbalances can put pressure on joints.
• Infections - viral and bacterial infections can cause inflammation of the joint lining.

People with joint pain often feel stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and find it difficult to move the affected joint. "My knees hurt when I try to stand up from sitting", "My shoulder clicks and hurts when I lift my arm", and "My knuckles are red, hot, and painful" are common complaints doctors hear from patients with joint issues.

How is joint pain diagnosed? Diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam of the painful joint and questions about symptoms and medical history. The doctor may order imaging tests like x-rays, CT scans or MRIs to look for damage or abnormalities. Blood tests can check for underlying autoimmune issues and infections. Analyzing fluid from the impacted joint can also help diagnosis.

What are the treatment options? Many types of joint pain can be managed with self-care:

• Apply hot and cold compresses
• Wrap joints with compression bandages
• Over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Stay active with low-impact exercise

For moderate or severe joint pain, prescription anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, physical therapy, orthotics, and even surgery may be necessary.