Joint Pain with Arthritis

Answer 1

There are many causes of joint pain. Joint pain can be caused by injury, overuse and even infection, however, the most common cause of joint pain is Arthritis. Arthritis related joint pain results from an inflammatory response that cause the joints to swell. The resultant swelling or inflammation results in pain. The most common form of arthritis is called osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause joint pain and swelling, however, this is less common and is a form of an autoimmune disorder.

Typically, joint pain can be relieved by medications called NSAIDS, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs include aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. NSAID medication not only relieves pain, but also relieves inflammation. In addition to medication, mild exercise is also very effective in relieving joint pain. Ice and cold are also effective in reducing the pain and inflammation of arthritis related joint pain, however, ice should be directly applied to the skin. Heat is less effective in relieving joint pain, however, a heating pad, in certain people, can be a soothing pain reliever.

Joint pain can also be caused by an uncommon condition called septic arthritis. Septic arthritis occurs when an infection triggers an inflammatory response in the body, including the joints. In cases of septic arthritis related joint pain, antibiotics may be effective in relieving infection related joint pain. Antibiotics can be effective in relieving a bacterial infection that may be causing the septic arthritis. If the infection is related to a virus, antibiotics will not be effective. Antibiotics are only effective in treating bacterial infections.

Individuals need to seek medical attention when they experience joint pain. Although arthritis and joint pain is very treatable, the physician may want to rule out other causes of joint pain and many recommend further testing. Diagnostic tests to evaluate joint pain may include blood tests and medical imaging tests. Physicians may also recommend a weight loss program to reduce joint pain that occurs in the knees. Excessive weight puts additional pressure on the knees and can exacerbate joint pain and swelling. Joint pain, is usually very manageable and people experiencing it have multiple options to treat it.