What is joint pain?

Cartilage, bone, tendons, ligaments, and muscles are all found in the joints. Any soreness or inflammation in a joint can be referred to as pain in the joints. However, arthritis or arthralgia, which is pain or inflammation of the joint itself, is the most frequent cause of joint pain.

In Charlotte, Southern Discomfort & Spine Specialists provides therapy for joint pain. We use an integrative, holistic approach to pain treatment while treating joint issues. When developing personalized treatment programs, Dr. Alamarie provides non-opioid, non-surgical therapeutic choices, such as regenerative medicine.

JOINT INJURIES

Causes of Joint Pain

Our bodies move in a variety of ways thanks in large part to the joints in our body. The elbow and knee are two joints that can open and close. Others permit moving in a rotational or forward-backward-side-to-side manner.

Overuse problems like tendonitis or stress fractures are frequent as a result of these motions and movements. The likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in the joints is increased by overuse and aging-related wear and tear. Traumatic injuries, such as those sustained during sports, can also result in shattered bones, sprains, strains, and dislocations.

JOINT CONDITIONS

Injuries, excessive use, or wear and tear can all contribute to joint pain.

Bursitis

The bursa are tiny sacs filled with fluid that support the body’s tissues by acting as cushions. They can be found near the larger joints. Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa that frequently affects joints that are subjected to repetitive action. Bursitis symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness. If necessary, injections or rest may help ease these symptoms.

Osteoarthritis and Degenerative Joint and Bone Diseases

The most prevalent type of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is brought on by joint wear and tear, which permits the bones to rub against one another. Age, weight, heredity, gender, recurrent injuries, athletics, or specific illnesses are common factors. The knee is the joint most frequently damaged by osteoarthritis, which affects all of the joints. A degenerative joint illness called osteoarthritis results in pain, stiffness, and inflamed joints.

Osteoporosis

A disorder called osteoporosis causes fragile, brittle bones. Because existing bone tissue is absorbed or destroyed in this condition, the body does not regenerate or produce new bone. Less bone mass or strength as a result causes fractures. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and pharmaceuticals are all possible treatments.

Gout

Another type of arthritis known as gout causes redness, swelling, and discomfort in the joints. Excess uric acid that crystallizes and accumulates in the joints can be quite painful, especially in the big toe or foot. Gout attacks may strike without warning. Diet, exercise, painkillers, and pharmaceuticals are all part of the treatment.

Sprains and Strains

Strains affect the muscles or tendons, while joint sprains include overstretching or ripping the ligaments. Pain, bruising, swelling, and restricted mobility are among symptoms. Common injuries like sprains and strains result from overextending, landing incorrectly, or taking a hit to the joint. Exercises that combine proper stretching with joint-strengthening benefits can help prevent sprains and strains.

Tendonitis and Overuse Injuries

Tendonitis results from an injured tendon swelling up. Tendonitis frequently manifests as discomfort, swelling, and movement problems. Rest and over-the-counter painkillers can be used to treat mild tendonitis at home. Medical measures might be necessary for more severe conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joint Pain

Various factors, such as aging, wear and tear, and misuse, can contribute to joint pain. Injuries sustained in sports and accidents can sometimes cause joint discomfort.

Depending on the source, joint pain can range in intensity from minor to severe. Pain, edema, joint stiffness, redness, warmth, and restricted movement are typical symptoms.

Contact your pain management doctor if you’ve tried to relieve your joint pain with rest, ice, and painkillers but it hasn’t worked. Additionally, if you experience any new or worse symptoms or pain that limits your range of motion, you ought to get in touch with your doctor. To identify the underlying reason for your joint pain, an assessment is required.

Joint pain can be treated in a number of ways at our pain treatment clinic in Charlotte, North Carolina. But first, we have to figure out what is causing your suffering. We are able to develop a suitable treatment strategy after the cause of your joint discomfort has been identified. Injections, medicines, weight management, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications are all possible treatments for reducing or getting rid of joint pain.

Each patient has a different level of pain tolerance. But if you’ve tried at-home treatments like rest, ice, and painkillers without results, speak with your doctor for a diagnosis. Medical attention is necessary if you have severe or persistent joint pain, pain that limits your mobility, or pain that does not improve with at-home treatments. Your discomfort will be lessened, and your quality of life will be improved.

Injuries or underlying disorders may result in joint injury. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis, gout, lupus, and bursitis are a few common joint ailments. Get in touch with your doctor for an evaluation if you believe you are exhibiting any symptoms or signs of a joint disorder.

It’s possible to experience joint pain or injuries occasionally, especially if you participate in sports. Overuse or injury are the most common causes of joint discomfort. The discomfort frequently goes away with general rest or over-the-counter medications. However, any new or deteriorating pain that does not have a recognized cause as well as any severe or persistent pain from an injury should be attended to. To find the cause and remedy for your joint pain, make an appointment with your pain management team.