Joint Pain | Causes | Relief for Sufferers

Joint pain, whether a chronic bothersome ache or an acute immobilizing pain, affects 1 out of 3 people throughout some point in their life. Osteoarthritis and injuries from accidents seem to be the most common cause of joint pain, however, it is a condition that does not discriminate and can be found in people across the board, regardless of age or activity level. A correct diagnosis as soon as possible is crucial, as it can lead to a treatment that can not only stop any further damage to the parts involved but can hopefully help to avoid the need for surgery later on.

Whether its bursitis, rheumatoid arthritis or a lack of proper form during jogging, this is a pain that results from inflammation to the ligaments, tendons and bursae (bur-see) that surround the joint. Injuries to cartilage and bone can also affect these parts. (Infections and tumors have also been known to cause joint pain but occur less often.) Since there are a number of diseases that have joint inflammation as a symptom, any type of joint pain that is unexplained, especially in a person who has not previously had this condition should see a doctor immediately. Joint pain can put a serious kink in the lives of its sufferers, interfering with their ability and freedom to simply move. For many, it is an interruption in their life that they could simply do without, yet a painful reminder that taking care of our bodies is key to a good life.

Although joint pain comes from inflammation of the surrounding tissues, the underlying cause of that inflammation will call for different and distinct treatments. Injuries and ligament tears will require a much different course of treatment than that of bursitis. However, during relatively mild bouts of joint pain, the recommended course of action is rest, heat and mild stretching exercises. Rest simply decreases activity and gives the inflamed tissues a chance to heal. The general rule states that for every ten hours of activity, one should have two hours of rest. As pain can cause a person to tense up, 20-30 minutes of heat from a heating pad or even a warm bath can increase the blood flow in the area and relax the muscles around the joint. (However, if the joint pain is from a newly acquired injury, apply ice.) When able, the sufferer should do some light stretches. Regular stretching gives a better range of movement. The wider the range of movement, the healthier the joint. The healthier the joint, the less opportunity for joint pain.

Good body mechanics can be the best thing for giving joints a break. Staying slim and practicing good posture can be a great place to start. Uneven distribution of one’s own body weight is enough to cause muscle strain which leads to wear and tear on joints. Work surfaces should be at least 2 inches below the bent elbow from a sitting position and forearms and thighs should run parallel to the floor. A standing workspace should be level and comfortable with no stooping. Proper lifting techniques should always be followed by lifting with the knees and carrying objects close to one’s chest. Those who sit for long periods can cut down on stress to the hips and knees when rising by increasing the height of their chair and by also making sure to change positions often in order to keep the hips, knees and back from getting stiff.