By Dr. Jagtap T N, General Physician
A joint is the connection between the two bones which provide support and help in movement. Any damage or injury in the joints can cause excessive joint pain. Knee pain is the most common type of joint pain followed by shoulder and hip pain. Ankle and wrist pain are less common conditions as compared to the other kinds of pain.
Symptoms Associated With Joint Pain Include:
- Redness
- Swelling of the joints
- Joint tenderness
- Limping
- Locking of the joint
- Stiffness
- Weakness
- Numbness in the joints
Causes of Joint Pain are as follows:
- Avascular necrosis
- Broken bones
- Gout
- Lupus
- Sprains/strains
- Joint dislocation
- Rickets
- Arthritis
- Leukaemia
- Bone cancer
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
Treatment of Joint Pain:
- Cold Therapy: You can apply an ice bag on to the joint for about 15-20 minutes which is causing excessive pain. It relieves the pain and the inflammation and provides comfort. Availing the cold therapy also relieves the soreness.
- Heat Therapy: Applying a heat pad or a hot water bag on the joint can help in relieving the extreme pain you are experiencing. The heat therapy aids blood circulation and helps in relieving sore muscles in your body.
- Over-the-counter Medications: There are a lot of medicines (painkillers) which are available and can help in relieving soreness and pain in the joints. The painkillers can be applied to the painful area or taken orally to help relieve the extreme pain.
- Mild Exercises: Engaging in Yoga and mild exercises can help you relax your joint and get rid of the pain gradually.
If the pain in your joint is excessive and chronic, you should visit an orthopaedist and discuss further treatment options.