6 Reasons Why You Experience Pain in Joints

Do you often experience pain in your joints? If so, you are not alone. Millions of people around the world suffer from joint pain. In this article, we will discuss six common causes of joint pain. Understanding the root cause of your joint pain is the first step to finding relief!

 

1. Injury or trauma:

 

Joint pain is often caused by an injury to the area, such as a sprain, strain, fracture, or dislocation. This type of joint pain can be acute and severe and should be treated immediately. Joints are very delicate and can become easily damaged when adequate care is not taken to avoid physical strain. Unfortunately, after physical trauma, the joint may become chronically swollen and tender, resulting in prolonged bouts of joint pain. In addition, regularly participating in high intensity activities without proper rest or hydration can also put you at risk for developing chronic joint pain.

 

2. Arthritis:

Arthritis is a common cause of chronic joint pain in both adults and children. The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis; however, there are other forms of arthritis as well. It often produces joint pain due to deterioration or swelling in the joints. The source of arthritis can be traced to accelerated aging, rheumatoid disease, overuse during vigorous activities or sports, injury to the affected joint, and genetics.

 

3. Overuse:

Doing activities that involve repetitive movements can lead to overuse injuries that can cause joint pain. This type of injury usually occurs when you do too much too soon without giving your body time to rest and recover between activities. Taking regular breaks from physical activity and watching out for signs of fatigue can go a long way when it comes to preventing joint pain from overuse.

 

4. Infections:

A bacterial or viral infection can cause inflammation and joint pain. Joint pain caused by an infection will often be accompanied by fever, chills, and fatigue. Infection can cause joint pain in many ways. It can damage the surfaces of bones and joints leading to inflammation, swelling and pain. Bacteria can also enter the joint fluid which leads to additional discomfort as the synovial fluid is released. Infection can also impact the ligaments and tendons that connect bones together by causing inflammation, leading to a buildup of pressure on them and causing tightness in the muscles around them. Ultimately, all of these processes lead to severe pain when trying to move or stretch affected joints. Without prompt treatment, infections can create long-term damage to joints that may persist for years afterwards.

 

5. Tumors:

Although rare, tumors that form in the joints may also cause joint pain. These tumors are usually benign but can still cause discomfort and should be examined by a doctor if suspected. Tumors can cause joint pain in many ways. On a microscopic scale, they may affect the positioning of the ends of bones, irritate nerves, and cause inflammation in the surrounding tissue. The pressure from a large or growing tumor can distort muscles, tendons, and ligaments and create soreness or stiffness from movement. Tumors may also release chemicals into the bloodstream that trigger an inflammatory response leading to pain. In rare cases, tumors are directly attached to joints, which can severely limit motion and cause incredible discomfort. Any kind of tumor can potentially impact joint movement and lead to painful symptoms. Fortunately for many people, treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can help reduce or even eliminate joint pain caused by tumors.

 

6. Autoimmune Disorders:

Autoimmune disorders such as lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and gout are known to cause joint pain due to their effects on the body’s immune system and ability to fight off infections and diseases.

 

Understanding the root cause of your joint pain is the first step to finding relief. If your joint pain persists or worsens, you should make an appointment with your doctor to discuss treatment options. By following the advice of your healthcare provider and taking steps to reduce joint inflammation, you can help manage your pain and improve your quality of life.

 

We hope this article has helped shed some light on the different causes of joint pain. In addition to talking to your doctor about treatment options, there are also several lifestyle changes that can help manage chronic joint pain such as eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, getting enough rest, and managing stress levels. Remember – if it hurts don’t ignore it!

 

At Spring + Heights Hospital in Spring, Texas, the experienced pain management specialists offer customized care plans to manage persistent pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other chronic conditions. Call Spring + Heights Hospital to learn more about available options for pain management. 346-474-9000