Joint Pain
Joint pain is a common health issue that can affect people of all ages. It can occur in any joint, but the most frequently affected areas are the knees, hips, shoulders, wrists, knuckles, ankles, and the base of the spine.
Chronic joint pain, lasting more than three months, is often linked to an underlying medical condition. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage your pain effectively.
Common symptoms of joint pain
The symptoms of joint pain vary depending on the joint affected and the underlying cause. Multiple joints may be affected at the same time, and the pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp or burning sensation.
Other common symptoms include:
Swelling or tenderness around the joint
Warmth or a feeling of heat in the affected area
Visible joint distortion
Stiffness, often worse in the morning
Fatigue due to pain and inflammation
Difficulty performing daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or using your hands
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, a condition that reduces bone mineral density, can contribute to joint pain.
Find out more about osteoporosis
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, affecting around 4 million Australians. It is characterised by pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and reduced mobility. The most common forms include:
Osteoarthritis – A degenerative joint disease affecting the whole joint, including bones, cartilage, ligaments, and muscles. It occurs when protective cartilage wears away, causing pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune disease that attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, joint damage, and chronic pain.
Overuse of joints
Repetitive activities, such as typing or playing sports like tennis, can strain joints and lead to pain over time.
Infectious diseases
Viral infections, including mumps, influenza, and hepatitis, can cause temporary joint aches and discomfort.
Injury
Joint pain may occur due to trauma or damage from accidents or injuries.
Cancer
Certain cancers, such as bone cancer or leukemia, and some cancer treatments, can cause joint pain.
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis characterised by sudden, severe attacks of joint pain, swelling, and redness, often affecting the big toe.
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints become inflamed, causing pain and swelling.
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissue, leading to joint inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Chondromalacia
Often called “runner’s knee,” chondromalacia involves damage to the cartilage under the kneecap, typically caused by overuse or injury.
Rickets
Rickets is a skeletal disorder caused by prolonged vitamin D deficiency, which can result in joint pain and bone deformities.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons, commonly affecting the shoulder, wrist, knee, shin, or heel, leading to pain and swelling.
Sarcoidosisis
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs and tissues, including joints, causing pain and stiffness.
Treatment and management of joint pain
Treatment depends on the cause of your joint pain. Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat the underlying condition or manage symptoms.
You can also take steps to relieve joint pain and inflammation at home:
Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol or aspirin
Use topical pain creams or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Engage in regular physical activity and stretching exercises
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints
Apply heat packs or ice packs to affected areas
Ensure adequate rest
When to see a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
Serious joint injury or trauma
Joints that are red, swollen, tender, or warm
Persistent or worsening pain
Fever without other flu symptoms
Joint deformity or sudden swelling
Difficulty moving the joint
If you’re experiencing joint pain, MediADVICE pharmacists are here to support you. Speak with your local pharmacist about your symptoms, so we can recommend products, treatments, and strategies to help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint health.
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Disclaimer
General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your health care professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your health care professional. Information current as of date of publishing.