Joints are where bones meet, allowing movement and providing protection. Joint pain is commonly felt in the hips, spine, knees, shoulders, and hands. The intensity of the joint pain can vary from person to person and usually depends on the cause of pain. Some people experience slight discomfort, while others experience throbbing and unbearable pain that comes and goes frequently.
An orthopedic doctor in Mulund, Mumbai, can help diagnose the cause of joint pain and recommend the best treatment plan. In the meantime, let’s check out the common causes of joint pain.
Common Causes of Joint Pain
a) Arthritis (Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis):
There are more than 100 types of arthritis, but the most common one is osteoarthritis, in which the cartilage wears away, causing immense pain in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes inflammation in the joints, making them stiff, swollen, and painful.
b) Fibromyalgia:
Fibromyalgia causes musculoskeletal pain. It doesn’t imply a problem with your joints or bones but is rather a brain-related issue. The pain occurs when your brain cannot process the pain and no-pain signals accurately.
c) Lupus:
It is an autoimmune disorder that causes your body to attack its own healthy tissues and organs. It can cause joint pain, especially in the smaller joints, accompanied by swelling, redness, and an achy sensation.
d) Gout:
A higher-than-normal level of uric acid in your blood can build crystals in your joints, causing inflammation and intense pain in one or multiple joints. The condition is called gout and can be managed with dietary modifications and medication to stabilize uric acid concentration.
Lifestyle Factors
In addition to medical factors, some lifestyle factors can also contribute to weak muscles and stiff joints.
i) Physical Inactivity:
Living a sedentary lifestyle makes you more vulnerable to joint pain than those with an active lifestyle. Practicing exercises will keep your joints healthy and flexible, making you less prone to fractures and joint pain.
ii) Poor Diet:
Nutritional deficiency is another cause of joint pain. To strengthen your bones and joints, make sure you add vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium to your diet.
iii) Stress:
Stress, depression, and other mental health disorders can cause joint stiffness due to increased inflammation.
Diagnosis and Treatment
When cartilage wears away, whether suddenly or gradually, bones rub against each other as you move that specific joint, which can be very painful.
See a doctor if you experience:
- Stiff joint
- Unbearable pain during movement
- Pain while resting
- Unable to move, bend, or straighten your joints
- Reduced mobility
- Swelling
Your doctor will order X-rays and MRIs to diagnose the cause of joint pain. Based on the severity of the issue, medications, and physical therapy can relieve the symptoms. In some cases, joint replacement surgery in Mulund, Mumbai, might be recommended.
Prevention Tips
Here’s what you can do to keep your bones and joints healthy:
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet with calcium-rich and Vitamin-D-rich foods
- Exercise regularly
- Get adequate sleep
- Keep your stress levels in check
If you are overweight or obese, consider a weight management plan.
