March 1, 2024
By Jeffrey Zarin, MD, Joint Replacement Specialist
Like any other pain in the body, joint pain signals that something may not be working correctly in the musculoskeletal system. A “joint” is generally defined as an intersection between bones in our body and includes all our body parts that allow the joint to move appropriately. The other body parts involved in proper joint movement include the muscles, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, joint fluid, and other tissues around the joints that keep them healthy and moving correctly.
Understanding joint pain is essential because it can indicate that any of the involved components may have been injured or is otherwise not functioning correctly – not just our bones. When joint pain presents itself, it generally arises from one or both of two issues: Mechanical problems or inflammation. Though it is always crucial to consult with a medical expert about joint concerns, answering the following five questions can help the public round out their knowledge of joint pain.
What are the top causes of joint pain?
The experience of joint pain is often related to things that increase joint strain. Inactivity, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity can be common causes of early-onset joint pain. Conversely, overuse can increase joint pain, whether in a competitive sport or standing too long at a job, for example. Joint inflammation and pain can also have genetic components.
What helps prevent joint pain from worsening?
Activities that decrease inflammation and improve joint stability will help achy joints. Though it may sound counterintuitive, people with joint pain should still find safe ways to exercise regularly. Stretch and warm up before activities, then use ice and cool down afterward. Some pre- and post-workout TLC can help prevent injury and joint trauma. Staying in shape with good strength and flexibility of the muscles surrounding the joints is one of the best ways to keep joint inflammation at bay. However, moderation is critical. Too much or too little activity can increase joint pain by increasing inflammation.
What should people with joint pain avoid, and why?
Joint pain signals that something is not functioning correctly in the body. If you have joint pain, you should avoid things that aggravate or increase it. For example, if someone has an injury of the knee that has damaged the cartilage, continuing to be a long-distance runner for exercise could aggravate or accelerate damage to the knee joint. Repetitive impact on an injured joint can lead to long-term consequences, including permanent damage to the cartilage (arthritis) or persistent pain and inflammation. Obesity and poor fitness can also contribute to more rapid degeneration of joint function, such that it may cause a significant and severe compromise to a person’s quality of life.
Though it seems like an easy “fix,” people with joint pain should use NSAID anti-inflammatory medications sparingly. These medications can help treat an acute flare-up of joint pain but may have significant side effects when used in the long term. If possible, use other anti-inflammatory techniques (ice, massage, stretching, topical medications) instead of medication.
Who should someone seek help if they are struggling with joint pain?
Joint pain is one of the most common causes of visits to the doctor. Your family doctor will know how to assess you for the cause of the joint pain and will initially offer conservative treatment advice. Exercises that are low impact, such as yoga, pool therapy, and massage, can be great places to start and may go a long way to prevent joint pain from worsening. Professional guided physical therapy can also be helpful, while nutritionists can assist with managing diet and weight loss if needed.
What happens if conservative treatment fails to provide joint pain relief?
Occasionally, referral to a specialist such as a rheumatologist or orthopedic surgeon will be necessary for progressive conditions that cause joint pain. Referral to a specialist may lead to prescriptions for longer-term or more potent medications. Occasionally, a medication injection into a painful joint may be prescribed. These medications vary in type and may include steroids (cortisone), joint lubricants (visco-supplements), and biologic agents (PRP, Stem cells). They all are utilized to decrease inflammation and joint pain.
Unfortunately, no current non-surgical treatments can cure arthritis or cartilage degeneration once it has progressed. If the joint is permanently damaged and the pain severely affects a person’s quality of life, surgery may be indicated to improve the joint’s function. This can involve replacing large joints (shoulder, hip, knee) and smaller joints (ankle, fingers). Sometimes, a joint will be fused if the damage is severe (spine, toes).
If you or someone you know has been suffering the painful effects of joint issues and hasn’t been able to find relief or get to the bottom of what’s causing them, be sure to make an appointment with a healthcare provider. Addressing joint pain before it becomes debilitating is always the best first step.
Sources:
Email answers provided by Dr. Zarin on 2/4/24.
