Introduction: Treatment For Joint Inflammation

Joints are one of the most common areas of pain in the body. And, because they’re so important, they often become inflamed and swollen. This is why joint inflammation is a common problem—it can affect just about any joint in the body. This blog post will discuss the causes of joint inflammation and how you can deal with it. We will also offer advice on future joint inflammation prevention and treatment for joint inflammation.

Inflammation is a common cause of pain and swelling in the joints. It’s caused by injury or infection, and bacteria and viruses, and trauma can cause it.

The health care provider will usually start by cleaning the wound and applying an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. The wound will likely be covered with a bandage for several days until it heals, at which point the bandage will be removed and replaced with a light elastic wrap that can be worn for about two weeks.

Once there is no longer any swelling or redness around the wound, the joint may be examined to check for damage or other problems. The joint will then be given time to heal before being examined again. More aggressive treatment for joint inflammation may be needed if it still hurts after two weeks.

What is Joint Inflammation?

Joint inflammation is a common problem that can occur when the synovial fluid in the joints becomes inflamed. This can cause pain and restricted movement in the joint. Various factors, such as arthritis, overuse injuries, or viral infections, can cause joint inflammation. Treatment for joint inflammation typically involves treating the underlying cause and often involves medication or physical therapy.

Joint inflammation is a condition that affects the bones, cartilage, and tendons in the joints. The affected area may experience discomfort and edema as a result, as well as stiffness and limited range of motion.

Causes of Joint Inflammation

Joint inflammation is the inflammation of a joint. Inflammation of the joints is most frequently brought on by bursitis, gout, and arthritis.

Arthritis is the breakdown of cartilage in a joint, causing pain and swelling. Arthritis can result from overuse or wear-and-tear on a joint, often accompanied by a fluid buildup within the joint.

Gout results from an excess buildup of uric acid in the body’s tissues (usually in the joints), which causes inflammation, pain, and other symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and joint stiffness.

Bursitis occurs when there is too much pressure on a bursa (a fluid-filled sac) around one or more joints due to injury or overuse of that area of the body. This can cause inflammation, leading to pain and swelling around the affected area.

Joint Inflammation Finger

Joint inflammation fingers is a condition characterized by swelling, redness, and pain in the fingers that are caused by several different factors. Pain may radiate up the finger or across the palm. The swelling may be mild to severe, depending on the severity of the underlying condition. There are several different types of joint inflammation in fingers, including gout and rheumatoid arthritis. The two conditions can be distinguished based on the type of pain that is felt, how long it lasts and what other symptoms are present.

Symptoms of Joint Inflammation

Various factors, such as infections, autoimmune disorders, and trauma, can cause joint inflammation. The symptoms of joint inflammation can vary depending on the cause.

Infections: Joint infection can cause intense pain, swelling, redness, and heat in the affected area.

Autoimmune disorders: Joint inflammation can be a sign of an autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder is when your body’s cells attack your tissues. Joint inflammation can be a sign of several different types of autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus erythematosus (LE), and Sjogren’s syndrome (SS).

Trauma: Joint inflammation can also be caused by trauma. Trauma can include physical activity that is too hard or excessive, accidental injury, and surgery.

Treatment For Joint Inflammation

Many treatments can be used to treat joint inflammation. Most of these treatments involve anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the swelling and pain caused by inflammation. Other treatments, such as physical therapy and acupuncture, may be helpful.

Some people may require surgery to remove the inflamed joint. Surgery may be necessary if the inflammation is severe or if it is causing significant pain or disability.

The most common type of treatment for joint inflammation is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs can be taken orally or applied topically to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Additionally, corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids are usually used only when other treatments have failed.

Joint inflammation is a common problem that affects millions of people. It may result in joint discomfort, inflammation, and stiffness. There are many options for treating joint inflammation, including medication and surgery.

Medication

Many types of prescription medications can be used to treat joint inflammation. These include anti-inflammatories, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and other medications. You may have heard these referred to as “arthritis drugs.” These medications work by reducing inflammation and pain in your joints.

These medications come in different forms: pills (tablets), liquids (solutions), injections, creams, gels, patches, or even IVs. Your doctor will recommend the best for you based on your medical history and current symptoms. Some people may need more than one medication to relieve their symptoms.

Stomach pain or an upset stomach are these drugs’ most frequent side effects; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; headache; dizziness; drowsiness; muscle weakness or tiredness; swelling of the hands or feet; irregular heartbeat (palpitations); itching around the eyes or inside the nose; blurred vision; changes in your sense of taste or smell; problems with urination (frequency, urgency, or burning when you pee); sore throat or mouth pain.

Surgery

Surgery is one of the most effective methods for treating joint inflammation. It is performed on a patient who has already undergone other treatments, such as herbal supplements and physical therapy. The procedure involves the removal of joint tissue and bone to allow space for the joint to heal. The recipient’s body will then try to heal the damaged area, which can take up to six months.

Surgery is advised when it is decided that there are no alternative treatment choices, such as medications or herbal supplements, that may not be safe for children. It is also recommended when patients fail to respond well to physical therapy and other forms of treatment, such as weight loss diets or acupuncture.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) states that surgery should be considered only if there are no contraindications or side effects from previous treatments, such as medication use or surgery (such as tumor removal). Patients should be informed about all potential risks beforehand to make informed decisions about whether or not surgery would benefit their condition.

Joint Inflammation Medical Term

When it comes to joint inflammation medical term, it is important to understand the underlying cause of your condition and seek appropriate treatment. Treatment should be tailored to your individual needs and symptoms to achieve the best outcomes. If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of joint inflammation, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

Prevention of Joint Inflammation

Joint inflammation is a condition that makes the joints hurt, swell, and become stiff. It can occur when the body’s immune system attacks its tissue, causing inflammation. The most common cause of joint inflammation is rheumatoid arthritis. Other causes include gout, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, osteoarthritis, and Lyme disease.

There are many ways to prevent joint inflammation from occurring. One way is to avoid things that can cause or aggravate joint inflammation. These include:

• – Smoking: Smoking damages the lungs and increases the production of free radicals, which cause inflammation in the body.
• – Using improper posture when sitting or standing: Improper posture strains your joints, leading to pain and irritation over time. You prevent placing too much strain on your hips, knees, and back muscles; make sure to sit upright!
• – Not getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep will raise cortisol levels, which will cause your body’s inflammatory processes—including those in your joints—to become more active. Try going to bed earlier to get more restful sleep every night!
• – Being overweight: Excess weight strains your joints, leading to inflammation and pain. Try losing weight by eating healthier and exercising more!
• – Not wearing supportive shoes: Wearing shoes with good arch support and heel cushions can help reduce pain in the back of your foot and prevent injuries.

Other Preventives Measures

There are several ways to prevent joint inflammation. The first is maintaining a healthy diet, reducing your body’s inflammatory response to injury and illness. You should also ensure that you get enough sleep and drink enough water, as these are crucial for keeping your joints lubricated and well-hydrated.

Another way to prevent joint inflammation is by exercising regularly. Regular exercise helps strengthen the muscles around your joints to support your movement better. It also improves blood flow, which helps fight off infection and reduce swelling in your joints.

Finally, it’s important to have regular appointments with your doctor so they can perform regular checkups on your joints’ health. This will allow them to identify any issues early on so they can be properly treated before they become serious problems later down the road!

Diagnosis of Joint Inflammation

Joint inflammation is diagnosed by evaluating the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and physical examination.

To diagnose joint inflammation, a physician will conduct a thorough exam that includes checking for swelling and tenderness in the affected area. If there is no swelling or tenderness, it may be difficult to diagnose joint inflammation. The physician may order blood tests to check for an elevated white blood cell count and other inflammatory markers that may indicate joint inflammation.

Some Types of Joint Inflammation

1. 1, Acute joint inflammation is caused by an injury or infection (e.g., arthritis). The symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and heat around the affected area(s).
2. 2. Subacute joint inflammation typically lasts two weeks or longer and can lead to chronic pain if not treated properly. Subacute joint inflammation typically affects only one joint at a time; however, if left untreated, subacute joint inflammation can lead to chronic pain in multiple areas of your body, such as your neck, shoulders, or lower back.
3. 3. Chronic joint inflammation—chronic joint inflammation usually occurs over many years and is often associated with long-term diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Joint Inflammation Supplements

• – Glucosamine

The cartilage in your joints naturally contains this amino sugar. As a supplement, it might lessen stiffness, edema, and pain while slowing down cartilage degradation. It is available in capsules, tablets, liquid, or powder. Your physician can advise combining it with the dietary supplement chondroitin.

• – Chondroitin

The connective tissue that makes up your bones and cartilage contains this chemical naturally. It can increase the collagen in your joints when you take it as a supplement, improving your ability to absorb shock. It might also assist in keeping water in your cartilage. The tissue may function more efficiently as a result. Additional chondroitin may also assist prevent cartilage deterioration. The supplement’s source is cartilage from animals.

• – Fish Oil/Omega-3s

These greasy supplements with an amber tint prevent proteins and fatty acids from activating inflammation. Your body converts them into resolvins, anti-inflammatory substances that reduce joint soreness and stiffness.

• – Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Natural sources of this sulfuric chemical include foods, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, animals, and people. Your body makes connective tissue with the aid of sulfur. The signs of knee osteoarthritis, such as pain and swelling, may be reduced by taking 1,000 to 3,000 mg or more of this natural substance daily.

• – Vitamin D

Researchers who study rheumatoid arthritis have discovered that those with the disease frequently don’t get enough vitamin D. Chronic discomfort may result from low amounts of this important vitamin. It might enhance the effectiveness of your arthritis medication when taken as a supplement.

• – Turmeric

The yellow hue of curry is due to this spice. It might also help you feel less pain. Curcumin, a substance found in turmeric, prevents several proteins from causing inflammation. It can eventually lessen joint pain and improve your mobility.

• – Borage Oil

This Borago plant extract contains gamma-linolenic acid, a fatty acid that helps the body combat inflammation. Borage oil supplements taken daily may help treat rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and lower the dosage required of prescription medications for joint pain and swelling.

Things to Avoid

Like any medication, supplements have hazards. For instance, the unpleasant side effects of thunder god vine may outweigh any potential benefits to your joints. Your liver may become toxic if you consume chaparral, arnica, or homemade kombucha tea. Before taking any supplements, even if you’ve heard they can help with joint discomfort, consult your doctor.

Conclusion

As we’ve learned, synovial membrane inflammation in a joint is a disorder that results in joint inflammation. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. An injury commonly causes joint inflammation but can also result from other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Joint inflammation is more common in the knee, ankle, and elbow joints than in other body parts. It can also affect the shoulder. If you have any questions about your symptoms or treatment options, feel free to ask your doctor!

Symptoms, Causes And Treatment For Knee Pain Going Upstairs

A great majority of patients with joints pain also complain of knee pain going upstairs that impacts their overall wellness. Several people these days are turning to knee pain natural remedies as a preventive alternative instead of traditional medication followed by knee replacement surgery.

The knee joint is the largest joint in the body, joining the two longest bones, (the bottom of the femur and the top of the tibia), with the knee cap in between. It plays a huge role in movement and weight-bearing, hence it is one of the most active and stressed joints. It is no surprise, therefore, that the knee is more prone to injury. There is an estimated number of 2.5 million sports-related injuries among adolescent athletes yearly (1).

As a hinge joint, it performs the following functions:

• – Enables you to walk efficiently
• – Supports your body to maintain a good posture
• – Acts as a shock absorber
• – Allows flexing and twisting of the leg
• – Provides stability during movement

Apart from the bones, the knee comprises other components such as:

• – Strong tendons and ligaments that hold the bones together and aid stability.
• – Cartilages that cushion the bones and promote smooth movement over one another.
• – The quadriceps muscles that straighten the legs, and the hamstring muscles that bend the legs at the knee.
• – Joint capsule that is filled with synovial fluid and lubricates the joint.
• – Bursa that reduces friction and prevents inflammation.

They all work together, promoting the easy movement of your body. But when any of these components is damaged or gets infected due to one reason or another, it can result in pain in your knee.

Knee pain is a common musculoskeletal condition that can limit movement and reduce your quality of life. Although it can occur at any age, its prevalence increases with age (2). It may present immediately after an injury or begin as mild discomfort, growing worse over time.

A lots of repetitive knee movements may also cause knee pain when walking and also going up and down stairs. A long-term stress on the knee may damage cartilage under the kneecap resulting into knee injury that is often referred to as wear and tear of the cartilages. The damage to the cartilage is common in people over 60 years of age and they experience pain when walking up stairs.

If you experience pain when you climb stairs, it is prudent see a physical therapist. A good physical therapy may include specific exercises and help to straighten the knee and help reduce knee injury. Well, depending on the underlying cause in a particular person, exercises and stretches may help or a surgery may be necessary.

This article will discuss some factors that cause pain when climb the stairs, and also suggest some treatment options that may help relieve the pain around the knee.

Symptoms Of Knee Pain Going Upstairs

Depending on the cause or location of the pain, signs, and symptoms may include:

• – Pain that lasts for more than 48 hours
• – Swelling and stiffness when walking up the stairs
• – Decreased movement and knee hurts
• – Inability to strengthen your knee fully when going up stairs
• – Inability to put your weight on the knee
• – Instability or weakness of the leg muscles
• – Redness and warmth of the knee
• – Constant popping or crunching sounds when bend and straighten the knees

Causes Of Knee Pain

There are several causes of knee pain. It can result from injuries due to trauma, medical conditions, mechanical problems, and other factors.

Traumatic Causes

You can even feel pain from an old injury that was not properly treated. Some of them include:

• – Injuries due to trauma

Most injuries are gotten during sports, exercises, a fall, or a misstep. They can affect either the ligaments, tendons, or bursae surrounding the knee. They often lead to fractures of the kneecap, tibia or femur, meniscus tear, or torn ligament. Below are some examples:

• – Sprains and Strains

A sprain or strain in the knee is more common among athletes or those who exercise regularly. It affects the ligaments and/or muscles surrounding the knee, and can occur due to overstretching or sudden twisting of the knee. This can cause severe knee pain in front of the knee. Other symptoms may include swelling and difficulty when walking(3). You could also get a sprain when you have an accident such as bumping into an object or falling on the floor.

You are at risk of developing knee pain under kneecap due to strains also if you don’t warm up before exercising, engage in sports without using protective gear, or work too hard in an activity.

• – Knee Ligament Injury

There are four major ligaments in your knee, attaching the femur (thigh bone of the upper leg) to the tibia (shinbone of the lower leg). They include the Posterior Cruciate Ligament, the Medial Collateral ligament, Anterior Cruciate Ligament, and the Lateral Collateral ligament.

Injuries affecting the anterior cruciate ligaments are the most common and occur majorly in people who engage in activities that require a sudden change in direction such as dancing, football, basketball, running, etc. (4).

The knee feels like it’s popping or giving out. On some occasions, you feel knee pain upon leg extension. Injury to the posterior cruciate ligament is the least common and is caused by a high-energy impact such as a car accident. It usually presents as knee pain in back of knee. It could also lead to instability while walking or standing.

A medial collateral ligament injury makes one feel pain inside the knee. It can be caused by a direct blow to the front of the knee. A lateral collateral ligament injury can be caused by a blow to the inside of the knee while the pain presents on the outside (5).

• – Torn Meniscus/Cartilage

The meniscus refers to the tough rubbery C-shaped cartilage that cushions the joint and acts as a shock absorber. When a meniscus tears, the edges can get stuck inside the joint, causing swelling and knee pain side of knee. Tearing of the meniscus can occur when you twist your knees suddenly. You may hear a pop sound and feel a “catching” sensation or knee pain upon extending the leg. Your knee could also give way or fail to straighten up when you want to stand.

• – Fracture

The kneecap as well as other bones in the knee can get broken when you fall or have auto accidents. The elderly whose bones have been made weak by osteoporosis are prone to develop knee pain and cracking of the bones by missing a step.

• – Patellar Tendonitis

Refers to inflammation of the tendon in the patellar, a large tendon that joins your kneecap to the upper end of your shinbone. This tendon allows one to run, jump and kick your leg. Athletes such as cyclists, runners, and people who engage in activities that require jumping are commonly affected. Veterans are given knee pain VA rating of 0 to 60%. It is also known as “jumper’s knee”. This is because jumping repeatedly can cause it. Around knee pain usually starts with a throbbing dull pain that grows severe when you become active.

There are cases where a weak patellar tendon may tear and cause inflammation of the knee and knee pain top of knee. If the tear is bad, it appears as a small dent and causes knee pain under kneecap.

Mechanical Causes

Knee pain can arise as a result of our body’s mechanical malfunction when we perform regular daily activities. Some conditions are:

• – Bursitis

The joints contain small fluid-filled sacs known as bursae that help to cushion the bones and prevent friction as one moves. Constant kneeling and bending, falls or overuse of the knee can irritate the bursa. Inflammation occurs, leading to swelling and knee pain top of kneecap. This is also called ‘prepatellar bursitis” or preachers knee’. Symptoms include redness, warm knees, and pain and swelling that grows worse when you bend or kneel.

• – Dislocation

This occurs when the kneecap slides out of its position as a result of a sudden change in direction, collision, or sharp blows to the knee. It presents as extreme pain knee pain in front of knee, swelling, slipping, and/or buckling during activity. Knee pain lunges can also be experienced as you perform some exercises

• – Iliotibial Band Syndrome

A bunch of thick fibers called iliotibial band run from outside your hips to the outside of the knees. When this band becomes too tight, it can rub against the rear end of the femur, causing swelling and knee pain at side of knee.

• – Loose Body

Some types of injury or bone degradation can make a piece of bone or cartilage disintegrate and find its way inside the joint. This can interfere with movement and can result in knee pain going upstairs. Knee pain due to loose body is often caused by overuse; engaging in activities that require you to continually bend your knees.

• – Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

This is a condition characterized by muscle imbalance and other alignment issues of the legs. It starts between the kneecap and the femur and is commonly experienced by young athletes whose kneecap fails to track properly in its socket. It also occurs in older adults with prior arthritis and is more common in women (6).

Sometimes, drivers experience knee pain from driving as a result of keeping their legs bent in a car or bad posture while driving. Symptoms include knee pain comes and goes and occasional giving out of the knee (buckling). Knee pain going upstairs can also be felt, growing worse with frequent bending or after sitting for a long time.

Medical Causes

Some medical conditions such as different types of arthritis can cause knee pain. They include:

• – Osteoarthritis

This is the most prevalent type of arthritis-causing knee pain and is more likely to develop as one grows older. It is also known as degenerative arthritis. It occurs as a result of wear-and-tear of the cartilage that is associated with aging. Knee pain due to osteoarthritis is characterized by joint pain that increases over time and stiffness of the joint.

• – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Refers to an autoimmune disease where the immune system fights its own body, attacking the joints, including the knee joint. It causes debilitating pain, redness, warmth, and swelling of the knees.

• – Gout

Occurs when high levels of uric acids build up as sharp crystals in the joint. Although the big toe is the most common part affected by gout, it sometimes affects the knees too. Knee pain gout can be very intense.

• – Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Also referred to as Osteochondrosis, this condition happens in young immature children as their bones and other components of the knee undergo some growth changes. It is associated with anterior knee pain and tenderness of the patellar tendon region. This knee pain comes and goes, and usually occurs due to frequent exercises that involve the knee (7).

• – Cancer

You can experience extreme knee pain as a result of cancer that either starts at the knee bones or spread to them from another site.

Other risk factors of knee pain are:

• – Obesity

Excess weight can put pressure on the knees, straining them and leading to pain and inflammation. Knee pain postpartum can also be experienced by pregnant women who put on extra weight during pregnancy.

• – Baker’s Cyst

Refers to a fluid-filled swelling that develops behind the knees. Also known as “popliteal cyst”, it forms when the tissue at the back of the knees becomes inflamed and swells up. This can lead to knee pain in back of knee and occasional locking of the knee joint (9).

• – Plica Syndrome

Sometimes, the plica (a membrane fold in the knee joint) becomes irritated. This gives rise to knee pain in front of knee and the middle. The knee also swells up and becomes unstable.

• – Genetic Factors

Genetic factors can predispose one to have conditions that revolves around knee pain.

Diagnosis of Knee Pain

Knee problems can be diagnosed by either of the following:

• – Physical Examination: The physician checks for swelling, popping, or cracking sounds, stability of the knee, if the knee is locked, and how well you can move your knees.
• – Medical History: The physician may ask questions to augment the findings from the physical examination. Such questions include; the location of the pain, at what time it hurts more, how long does the pain last, and any other accompanying symptoms.
• – Imaging Scans: imaging studies such as X-ray, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT) and Arthroscopy can be carried out to view the bones and evaluate the surrounding tissues of the knee.

Treatment For Knee Pain

Treatment options are dependent on the cause of the knee pain. Sometimes, it can stop on its own. But cases like injuries and unidentifiable causes will require you to see a doctor.

For mild pain, you can take care of it at home by applying these knee pain natural remedies:

• – Rest: Resting the knee helps to reduce inflammation.
• – Heat and cold therapy: A heating pad is effective in relieving swelling and associated pain. You can also alternate by placing an ice pack on your knee for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours. Avoid placing the ice directly on your skin or leaving it on your skin for a long time to avoid frostbite.
• – Keep your knees elevated as much as you can. Try sleeping with a pillow under your knees to ease knee pain lying down.
• – Application of herbal pain relief ointment on the knee.
•  – Use support devices such as braces, tapes, casts, or elastic bandages.
•  – Perform mild exercises that stretch and strengthen your muscles.

For moderate to severe pain or as required by your doctor, the following is recommended:

• – NSAIDs: Non-Steroidal AntiInflammatory Drugs are medications used to relieve pain and inflammation. Examples include Naproxen and Ibuprofen.
• – Steroids: in some occasions, steroids such as prednisolone and cortisone are given to reduce inflammation and knee pain. This is very effective in osteoarthritis-induced pain.
• – DMARDS: Disease Modifying AntiRheumatoid Drugs: These medications are given majorly in cases of knee pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
• – If seen fit by the doctor, you may be referred to a physiotherapist who can provide physical therapy to aid in the relief of symptoms.
• – Complementary and Alternative Therapies like yoga and tai chi and acupuncture have been found to be effective in relieving pain. They work to improve flexibility and activate several processes in the body that reduces pain (10). It is particularly beneficial in osteoarthritis.
• – Surgery: This is usually performed the above treatment options fail to be of help. Arthroscopy is the most common type of knee surgery. It can be carried out to repair or remove a torn meniscus, remove an inflamed synovial tissue, trim a damaged articular cartilage or reconstruct a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Knee Replacement can also be performed to remove the damaged parts of the knee joint and replace them with materials such as pieces of ceramic, plastic, or metal (11).

If you are lucky, experiencing knee pain can be only temporary. For some people, it can occur frequently and persists with activity or old age. To help prevent knee pain or decrease the symptoms, you should adopt a healthy lifestyle by maintaining your weight, quitting smoking and excessive alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and use of protective gear during sports (for athletes).

References

1. 1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/299204
2. 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3408027/.
3. 3. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/knee-pain-and-problems
4. 4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20350849
5. 5. https://www.verywellhealth.com/knee-pain-symptoms-2549628
6. 6. https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/knee-pain-causes
7. 7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441995/
8. 8. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003187.htm
9. 9. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bakers-cyst/
10. 10. https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/knee/acupuncture-for-knee-osteoarthritis#procedure.
11. 11. https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/preparing-for-surgery/procedures/knee-surgery/#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20knee%20surgeries,knee%20problems%20%E2%80%94%20or%20knee%20replacement.&text=Arthroscopy%20is%20a%20type%20of,wide%20range%20of%20knee%20problems.

Introduction: Joints Stiffness In Hands And Fingers

One of the most crucial components of our body are the joints. They allow us to move our limbs and joints and play a crucial role in our overall health. Unfortunately,  joints stiffness in hands over the time may happen due to several factors.

This post will discuss how joints affect stiffness and some methods for easing joints stiffness in hands. By addressing joint stiffness head-on, you can help optimize your health and reduce the risk of future pain and injuries.

Joint Stiffness

Joint stiffness is a feeling of pain or discomfort in the joints. Joint stiffness measures how much resistance an object has to bending or stretching. It’s typically determined by applying pressure to the joint and then measuring the movement that can be achieved before it is applied again. Joint stiffness is important because it affects how well joints move and how comfortable they are to use. In general, stiffer joints are more resistant to movement, while softer joints are more flexible. It can be caused by arthritis, injury, or other conditions. Joint stiffness is most common in the hands and wrists.

Many different factors can affect joint stiffness. These include age, muscle mass, flexibility, and injury history. Age is particularly important because as we age, our muscles become less flexible, and our ligaments become less strong. This can lead to stiff joints overall.

Muscle mass also plays a role in joint stiffness. The more muscle there is in a given area, the more resistance the joint will have to move. This is especially true for larger muscles in areas like the hips and shoulders, which tend to be stiffer than smaller muscles in those same areas.

Finally, flexibility also affects joint stiffness. Our ligaments can stretch farther without breaking down as we become more flexible. This allows us to move our joints more easily and with less resistance.

There are various measures you can take to reduce joint stiffness

There are several things you can do to improve joint stiffness. If you have joint pain, you must consult a doctor and start a treatment plan that best works for you. However, here are some tips that may help:

• – Exercise regularly: Exercise is one of the best ways to improve joint stiffness. Not only does exercise help improve your overall health, but it can also help reduce the risk of developing arthritis. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, hormones that block pain signals from reaching your brain.
• – Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can worsen joint stiffness and create other problems such as osteoporosis. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to lowered inhibitions and an inability to resist temptation, leading to overindulgence in other substances. In addition, drinking increases inflammation and swelling, which can worsen joint conditions.
• – Take supplements: Several supplements help improve joint stiffness. For example, glucosamine supplements help relieve joint pain and improve joint function. Fish oil supplements are also thought to be beneficial for maintaining joint health and reducing the risk of arthritis. Talk with your doctor about what specific supplements may be right for you.
• 

Joints Stiffness In Hands

The joint stiffness of the hand is a condition that affects the joints in the hands, leading to pain and stiffness.

Men and women can experience joint stiffness hands, although persons over 50 are most likely to experience it. The condition causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the fingers and thumb joints. If you have joint stiffness, you may also notice that your joints become stiffer as the day progresses. This is because the body produces more collagen at rest than when it’s active.

Joint stiffness of the hand can be caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be caused by gout or psoriatic arthritis. Joint stiffness can sometimes be related to other conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Treatment for joint stiffness typically involves exercise, rehabilitation, and medication

There are a few treatments for joint stiffness, typically involving exercise, rehabilitation, and medication. Exercise is the most common treatment and can help to improve joint range of motion and reduce inflammation. Rehabilitation may also include stretching exercises and other activities that improve flexibility and range of motion. Medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation or pain or to promote healing.

If you experience joint stiffness, it’s important to speak with your doctor about what steps to take to improve your condition.

If you experience joint stiffness, it’s important to speak with your doctor about what steps to take to improve your condition. Joint stiffness can often signify something more serious, such as arthritis. If you’re experiencing significant joint pain, your doctor may recommend seeing a specialist for further evaluation. However, there are various things you can do on your own to help relieve joint stiffness and pain.

One thing you can do is exercise regularly. Exercise not only helps reduce joint pain and stiffness, but it also improves overall fitness and health. Make sure to include moderate-intensity exercise as part of your routine; too much intense exercise can worsen joint pain and stiffness. Dilate blood vessels in the tissues around joints). You might also find relief from exercises that focus on stretching or massaging specific muscle groups associated with the joints (such as the quadriceps).

Discuss the available options with your doctor if medication is necessary to treat your joint stiffness. Certain medications may improve flexibility in the affected joints or relieve pain. Other medications may have side effects that you must be aware of (including tiredness or drowsiness). Speak with your doctor about the best treatment options for joint stiffness and pain.

Types of Joint Stiffness

Joint stiffness measures the force necessary to bend or rotate a joint. There are three types of joint stiffness:

1. 1. Static joint stiffness: The amount of force needed to bend or rotate a joint without any movement in between.
2. 2. Dynamic joint stiffness: The force needed to bend or rotate a joint while the body is moving, during running, or otherwise.
3. 3. Durational joint stiffness: the time it takes a body to transition between two positions without the application of an external force; this includes gravity and other factors such as wind resistance, friction from clothing, etc.

Causes of Joint Stiffness

There are many possible causes of joint stiffness. Some common causes are:

• – Injuries to the cartilage, bone, or tendon in the joint
• – Inflammation
• – Arthritis
• – Obesity
• – Genetics

Painful Joints Symptoms

The symptoms of joint stiffness depend on the location and severity of the condition. In general, however, the symptoms will vary depending on which joints are affected. Symptoms may include:

• – Pain in the area around the joint
• – Reduced range of motion in the affected joint
• – Difficulty moving the joint
• – Limited activity due to decreased range of motion or increased pain

Joint stiffness is a common problem that several different factors, including arthritis, injury, and age can cause. If you are experiencing joint stiffness, there are some simple things you can do to help improve your painful joints symptoms:

1. 1. Try to eliminate any sources of inflammation from your life. This might include reducing your intake of dairy products, avoiding processed foods, and getting plenty of exercise.
2. 2. Make sure to supplement your diet with omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine sulfate.
3. 3. Make sure to seek professional help if the joint pain is too much to handle.

Joint Stiffness In Knees

Joint stiffness in the knee is a common condition that several factors can cause. It’s important to understand that joint stiffness is not the same as soreness, which is typically more temporary and will go away with time. On the other hand, joint stiffness can last for weeks or even months and may require treatment from a medical professional.

Joint stiffness in the knee can occur as part of another condition, such as arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Injuries, such as an ACL tear or meniscus tear can also cause joint stiffness.

Joint Stiffness In Fingers

Joint stiffness fingers is a condition in which the joints of your fingers are stiff and painful. This happens when there is an inflammation of the synovial joints in your fingers. The synovial joints are the ones that allow our fingers to bend and straighten. When they become inflamed, they do not function properly and cause pain.

The symptoms of joint stiffness in fingers include:

• – Pain in your joints
• – Stiffness in your fingers
• – Aching or burning sensation in your fingers (which may be worse when you exercise or use your hands)

When Should I See A Doctor?

Speak with your doctor if joint stiffness and discomfort suddenly emerge. Likewise, you should visit a doctor if the pain and stiffness persist for more than five to seven days.

Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should consult your doctor right away:

• – extreme pain
• – rapid expansion
• – joint malformation
• – extreme redness and warmth to the touch

Although joint stiffness is common, especially as you age, it can also be the first symptom of other conditions. A physical examination is a quick and simple way to find out what might be the issue.

Your doctor might recommend treatments to help you feel less stiff while you wait to see if the stiffness goes away if a physical exam is inconclusive. You might need some tests to get a diagnosis if it doesn’t go away.

Your doctor can assist you in choosing the most appropriate course of treatment once the cause has been identified. It can aid in symptom relief and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Why Do Joints Get Stiff?

After waking up, many people complain of stiff joints. As a result of lying flat for several hours while you sleep, it is harder to move your joints first thing in the morning.

Joint stiffness may be slight and only temporarily impair your mobility each morning or after spending a lot of time sitting down. Additionally, the stiffness may be more severe and limit your mobility.

Joint stiffness can occasionally be accompanied by pain and inflammation. Walking, standing, or bearing weight on your joints may become uncomfortable.

Joint stiffness is not always a sign of aging. Stiff joints can result from several different situations. These include lupus, bursitis, and arthritis. Diet and weight management are two lifestyle variables that can affect joint mobility.

Techniques To Control Joint Stiffness

1. 1. Watch your weight

Joints, particularly the knees, are stressed by excess body weight. Obesity has substantial postoperative effects and significantly raises your risk of developing arthritis in your leg joints. Your knees are under four pounds more pressure for every pound you gain. If you are 10 pounds overweight, every step you take puts 40 pounds of additional pressure on your knees.

Keeping a healthy weight also involves avoiding heavy loads like supermarket bags and protecting your smaller joints. For instance, engage your hands and arms’ muscles when lifting rather than only your fingers. To get out of a chair, use your thigh muscles rather than your hands to push off.

2. 2. Continue moving

Even though joints are made to move, if we don’t regularly stretch to avoid stiffness and warm up before activity, we’ll groan like the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz. Exercise may be difficult for persons with arthritis. Instead of using the elliptical, choose less strenuous activities for your joints, swimming or riding a bike.

Choose workouts that will keep your tendons and ligaments healthy as you age. When you pivot, twist, or halt and turn suddenly while playing a sport like basketball or a racquetball, your knee’s meniscus or ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) may be damaged. Repetitive movements like weeding or swinging a golf club might result in tendonitis.

3. 3. Keep your pace

Build up gradually to reduce the chance of injury when starting a new activity. If you exercise too quickly and vigorously before your muscles are prepared to sustain them, you risk aggravating or straining joints. Pay attention to your body to know when to quit. There are no benefits to excessive use.

How much is too much? If you begin to hurt, stop what you are doing. Cut back if any soreness or discomfort persists after 30 minutes of exercise. Additionally, moving around a lot helps with arthritic discomfort. The issue is striking the right balance between having too little and having too much.

Conclusion

There are several ways to treat joint stiffness, depending on the cause and severity. If the stiffness is caused by arthritis, treatments may include pain relief medications, physical therapy, and prescription drugs. Exercises and stretches may be recommended if the stiffness is due to overuse or repetitive movements. In both cases, it is important to keep the joints warm and lubricated so that they can move more easily. You may need surgery if an injury causes the condition; treatment depends on the cause of the joint stiffness and how severe it is. Most people improve with treatment over time, but some may require long-term care.

Green Lipped Mussels From New Zealand

Green lipped mussels from New Zealand are well known for their rich nutritional values as they contain high amounts of vital amino acids, minerals, eicosapentaenoic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids, and all these nutrients have been shown to play important functions in the body. Asides from being eaten directly, their extracts can be used as supplements in oil or powder form in the diet (1).

Mussels are shellfish of different varieties and up to 17 of them are considered edible. The biggest variety of mussels in the world is green lipped mussels New Zealand because they are native to the country. The name “green-lipped” mussel was derived from their appearance because their edges are green in color and give off a lip-like appearance where the two sides of the shells meet.

This article will explain all the details you need on the health benefits of taking green lipped mussels, their nutrient composition, medical benefits in some diseases, quantity to consume, and side effects of taking green lipped mussels.

Composition Of Green Lipped Mussels From New Zealand

The discovery that indigenous Maori people in New Zealand (NZ) who were consuming green lipped mussels reported lower cases of arthritis than individuals who lived inland and this difference stimulated researchers’ interest in green lipped mussels’ possible health benefits in 1970s. It was eventually discovered that mussels are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They supply docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in great quantities. These have both been shown to reduce inflammation (1).

Researchers have also discovered many additional fatty acids in New Zealand green-lipped mussels. Mussels could also have anti-inflammatory potentials by blocking the proteins and enzymes that cause pain and inflammation. Apart from their anti-inflammatory effects, green lipped mussels are also an excellent source of selenium, iron, many B vitamins, and a decent source of zinc (1).

An evaluation of the nutritional advantages of green-lipped mussels finds that the shellfish are high in the following nutrients:

• – Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) which are examples of omega-3 fatty acids
• – Sulfated chondroitin
• – Zinc
• – Iron
• – Selenium
• – Protein (2).

Green Lipped Mussel Oil

Green lipped mussel oil is an important and commonly used supplement derived from green lipped mussels. These shellfish are farmed for the purpose of oil extraction and this task is completed by trained specialists using a biotechnological extraction method. These experts extract the mussel flesh from its shell without using heat to prevent heat from destroying them and losing its nutritious advantages.

The mussels are prepared in a way that their nutritional values stay fresh throughout the procedure thanks to a cutting-edge method of pasteurization. Mussel oil is extracted from the freeze-dry powder of New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract. The oil is extracted without using chemicals that may interfere with the quality of the end product. The end product is a highly pure marine lipid oil rich in minerals and vitamins (3).

Green Lipped Mussel Oil And Rheumatoid Arthritis

Up until recently, fish oil has been the popular source of omega-3. Now, small dosages of green lipped mussel oil have been shown to be consistently more effective than a dose of fish oil of the same amount, according to research. This is due to the fact that they are also a rich source of important fatty acids like eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), which enhances gene-level wellness.

The extract of green-lipped mussel powder has been used as a nutritional supplement for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to being anti-inflammatory, EPA and DHA also help lessen the symptoms of illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis. A study also showed that each participant’s joint pain and inflammation decreased with a daily 1.2-ounce dose of green lipped mussel supplement. Similar to the Green Lipped Mussel, 1.2 ounces of fish oil taken each day for twelve weeks yielded no significant effect overall. The conclusion from this study is that green lipped mussel oil is more effective than fish oil in relieving inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (13).

The Medical Benefits Of Green-Lipped Mussels From New Zealand

The following are the medical benefits of using green lipped mussels:

• – Arthritis

Arthritis is caused by persistent inflammation and is usually characterized by severe stiffness and swelling in your joints. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the commonest two forms of arthritis conditions reported. The use green lipped mussel supplement has also been shown to lessen joint inflammation, hence relieving arthritis symptoms (4).

The green lipped mussel was found by researchers to have improved VAS pain scores in patients with osteoarthritis based on the result of a study conducted on 452 patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis (5).

• – Role in the Digestive system

Beyond the beneficial effect of green lipped mussels New Zealand in alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, there is some evidence that the chemicals found in green-lipped mussels can enhance our digestive system health (1). Early research has indicated that maintaining a variety of “good” microorganism populations is essential for immunological function, as well as the prevention of obesity and metabolic illnesses.

To maintain a healthy and varied gut, we must consume both prebiotic and probiotic foods on a regular basis. Prebiotics are fiber-rich foods like garlic, onion, and bananas that “feed” the bacteria that are already present in our digestive system, whereas probiotics are dairy products like yogurt and pickled vegetables that introduce new strands to our digestive system (1).

Researchers have also out that green-lipped mussels might have an influence on our intestinal health. To begin, a 2017 study found that green-lipped mussels promote the development of “good” bacteria while suppressing intestinal inflammation thereby improving digestive system health. Many experts think that intestinal inflammation has a role in many chronic diseases like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma, thus diets rich in fiber foods such as fruits, whole grains, and vegetables which include prebiotic and probiotic foods are an excellent approach to staying healthy (1).

• – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)

The health importance of Green lipped mussels from New Zealand has also been observed in the area of children and adolescent mental health. Research conducted by scientists at the Swinburne university concluded that this mussel can improve the symptoms of children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, hyperactivity, and learning problems. Children given mussel extract capsules for 14 weeks showed better responses at home and recorded less hyperactivity than a placebo group, according to the research

• – Use in Asthma (Current research)

Asthma is a persistent inflammatory problem that affects the lungs and makes breathing hard. Green lipped mussels decreases inflammation in pulmonary system and that’s how they help people living with asthma. This has been the case in many scientific studies done by researchers. In one research. Participants with asthma were administered 400mg of mussel extract for three week. Other participants were placed on a control for the same period before switching to the opposite medication for another three weeks. Unlike the control, the green lipped mussel extract resulted into large decreases in pulmonary inflammation and symptoms of asthma (6).

Another showed that in about 46 patients diagnosed with asthma, the condition was signicantly increased by daily consumption of green-lipped mussel over a period of two months period. These results were observed without any side effects whatsoever, which further attests to green-lipped mussels being very safe for use.

It was also demonstrated that substances found within green-lipped mussels can drastically improve several respiratory function markers, decrease wheezing, and improve airflow. It is also believed that, these benefits are due to the enormous anti-inflammatory potential that green lipped mussels have (7).

• – Green lipped mussel improves fertility

Green lipped mussel oil could be of benefit to couples facing infertility issues. This benefit has been linked to omega-3 fatty acids which are an important nutritional component of shellfish. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown over the years to be an important key player in fertility and reproductive health. The condition of the womb can also be improved by the anti-inflammatory properties and regulatory hormonal regulatory function responsible for ovulation. These factors put an individual in a good condition to conceive. (11)

• – Benefit to the brain

The brain is an important organ in humans and it needs to be in an optimal condition to enable us to live a good life. The use of supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acid such green lipped mussel oil help to improve cognitive functions (memory and learning). Fish oil has been recommended for this purpose long before now because of its omega-3 constituent, however, green lipped mussels from New Zealand can also provide a similar function thanks to its omega-3 fatty acids components. (13)

Green Lipped Mussels From New Zealand: Dosage

The suitable dose of green lipped mussels from New Zealand depends on various factors, including the consumer’s age, health, medical status and a number of other situations. Currently, there is not a lot of scientific information to ascertain an apt range of doses for green lipped mussel oil (12).

This is because there are limited clinical trial data available to inform therapeutic dosing. In arthritis and asthma trials, different dosages from commercial preparations have been reported, making dosing difficult to establish (11). Notwithstanding, green lipped mussel extracts have often been used by adults in doses of 200 – 400mg by mouth daily for up to three months (12). Green lipped mussels new Zealand powder has most commonly been used by adults in doses of 1050 – 1150mg by mouth daily for up to three months (12).

Green Lipped Mussels Side Effects

Green Lipped mussel oil is generally safe to use. Green lipped mussels from New Zealand have been used safely for up to a year. It is very well tolerated. Having said that, some people may experience side effects like slight abdominal pain, frequent farting, and nausea (10).

Safety And Concern

There is a persistent worry with regard to fish and seafood. Due to existing fears over pollutants such as heavy metals like mercury. Thankfully, many research studies that have analyzed the levels of contamination in green lipped mussels have discovered that they are very low, largely due to the clean waters in New Zealand coast(10).

Although they are safe for most people, it is not advisable for people on blood-thinning drugs to take green lipped mussels since they can potentially make the blood dangerously thin and the individual may bleed excessively to small cuts. Similarly, green lipped mussels use should not be used close to surgeries to prevent excessive bleeding (10).

Green lipped mussels should not be taken during pregnancy. There has been evidence to show that it can negatively affect the growth and development of the unborn child, and also delay childbirth (11).

There is not enough well-grounded information to know if green lipped mussel from New Zealand is safe to use while breastfeeding. It is best to stay safe and avoid using it while breastfeeding to prevent harm to the growing baby. Green lipped mussel is safe for children between six and fourteen years of age. Since green lipped mussels are a type of shellfish, they should not be consumed by those allergic to shellfish (6).

Conclusion

The following are important points to note about the green lipped mussels from New Zealand:

• – Green lipped mussels have been the subject of much research for almost 60 years due to their high nutritional content and health benefits.
• – Green lipped mussels are also taken as supplements in powder form or as green lipped mussel oil.
• – Green lipped mussels have also been proven to be beneficial to ADHD patients and as well as relieving asthma symptoms.
• – These shellfish have been well recognized over many decades for their potential to significantly reduce pain symptoms, promote mobility, and enable osteoarthritis patients to live quality lives.
• – Omega3 fatty acids, vitamins, and important mineral constituents are the core of green lipped mussel function
• – Green lipped mussels also work synergistically with NSAIDs and are capable of reducing the side effects of the drugs.
• – However, people who are on blood thinning drugs are not advised to take green lipped mussels. This also applies to individuals who are close to having a surgery. As there is an insufficiency of evidence on its safety for use in children and pregnant/breastfeeding women, it is also not advised for people in these categories.
• – Finally, with healthy lifestyle practices, and capitalizing on the rich profile of green lipped mussels is another wonderful and natural way of boosting one’s health.

References

1. 1. https://www.simplysupplements.co.uk/healthylife/supplements/green-lipped-mussel-benefits
2. 2. https://www.hakalife.com/sf-special-offer/
3. 3. https://www.hakalife.com/education/green-lipped-mussel/how-green-lipped-mussel-oil-is-made-and-harvested/
4. 4. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-lipped-mussel#nutrient-content
5. 5. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10787-021-00801-2
6. 6. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-lipped-mussel
7. 7. https://wa.kaiserpermanente.org/kbase/topic.jhtml?docId=hn-2860000
8. 8. https://www.drugs.com/npp/new-zealand-green-lipped-mussel.html
9. 9. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-830/new-zealand-green-lipped-mussel
10. 10. https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2860000
11. 11. https://www.ccrmivf.com/blog/fertility-benefits-omega3-fatty-acids
12. 12. https://www.rxlist.com/new_zealand_green-lipped_mussel/supplements.htm
13. 13. https://bebrainfit.com/omega-3-fats-brain-benefits/

Arthritis Facts: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Arthritis is a term that refers to joint inflammation (pain, swelling, and stiffness). It is generally used to describe any disorder that affects the joints, tissues around the joints, as well as other connective tissues. One of the arthritis facts is that it can affect either one joint or several joints at the same time. Hence there are different types of arthritis, more than 100 of them.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is estimated that 58.5 million adults have one type of arthritis joint condition. It was also indicated that it affects adults 65 years and above. Although it is more common among women and the elderly, arthritis can affect everyone, children and young people alike. (1) Arthritis is also the leading cause of disability among adults.

Arthritis Facts: Types Of Arthritis

Below sections explain some facts about arthritis, including the common types of arthritis.

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is reputed to have the most frequent number of visits to the hospital. Also known as Arthrosis or Wear-and-tear arthritis, it is a degenerative disease that affects the whole joint. It begins with the roughening and breaking down of the cartilage within a joint (commonly the knees, hands, hips, and spine).

In an attempt to make up for the wear and loss of cartilage, the body causes unwanted little bits of bone, called osteophytes to grow at the ends of the bone in the joint. Over time, the synovial fluid increases and may stretch the joint capsule, leading to difficult and painful movement. (2)

Arthritis joint damage incurred previously, such as joint inflammation or fracture can also cause osteoarthritis. Swelling of the joint is an attribute of joint inflammation, which occurs as a result of the thickening of the synovium. Studies suggest that, when the degraded cartilage pieces fall into the synovium, the synovial cells view them as foreign bodies and respond by releasing inflammatory mediators. (3)

Signs and symptoms of Osteoarthritis

• – Swelling and tenderness: this is a result of inflammation.
• – Pain: Intensity varies from one person to the other and increases with time if management is not commenced.
• – Arthritis nodes are bony hard lumps at the joints of your finger. When arthritis nodes develop at the joint closest to your finger, they are referred to as Heberden’s nodes. When they develop at joints close to your hand, they are called Bouchard’s nodes.
• – Stiffness
• – Reduced movement
• – Crunching sounds, like your bone is rubbing against each other.

What Age Is One Likely To Develop Osteoarthritis

About 250 million people in the world are affected by osteoarthritis, of which the majority are the elderly. Osteoarthritis is more likely to develop in women after the age of 45, while in men, it can develop before age 45. Due to bodily changes that occur as one age, such as weight gain, inability to heal faster and efficiently, and muscle weakness, it is common to develop osteoarthritis in your late forties. (4)

To differentiate arthritis versus arthrosis, the doctor can run physical tests to check for tenderness, swelling, and redness in the joints. He could also run some imaging tests such as X-rays and MRIs to view detailed images of the bones and soft tissues and determine cartilage loss. Although blood tests cant be used to diagnose osteoarthritis, the blood can be analyzed to rule out other likely causes of joint pain.

Management of Osteoarthritis

Several modalities have been postulated to help with the management of osteoarthritis. Some of them are:

• – Hot and cold therapies
• – Regular physical activity
• – Over-the-counter medication
• – Assistive devices like osteoarthritis unloader knee brace.

Osteoarthritis patients should avoid foods such as red meat and fried foods, sugars, dairy products, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and tobacco. They irritate the joint tissue and can increase inflammation. Studies carried out by the American Academy of Orthopedic surgeons have identified osteoarthritis as the primary reason for discharge from active military service. Hence, veterans may receive a 10% arthritis VA rating if symptoms appear within one year of discharge.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease majorly characterized by inflammation. Naturally, our immune system causes inflammation as a defense mechanism against some bacteria, viruses, or other injuries like burns. However, in rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system becomes overactive, attacks healthy cells of the joints, and triggers inflammation. This results in an inflated lining of the joint and damaged joint tissue.

Asides from worsening the pain in the arthritis joint, continuous inflammation can lead to permanent damage of the joints, lack of balance, deformity, and issues in other organs of the body. The common joints affected are the hands, wrists, and knees. At the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, one can experience elbow pain caused by uncontrolled inflammation in the elbow joint. Veterans may receive a 100% arthritis VA rating if they experience total incapacitation of the arthritis joint during constitutional manifestations.

Signs and symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

• – Swelling and tenderness in the joints
• – Stiffness in the joints in the mornings
• – Pain or ache in the joints
• – Weakness
• – Fatigue
• – A general feeling of being unwell
• – Fever

Rheumatoid Arthritis Versus Lupus

Oftentimes, some patients develop rheumatoid arthritis with lupus, or mistake the former for the latter. While they are both autoimmune diseases and share similar symptoms such as joint swelling, fatigue, and fever, there are several distinguishing features.

• – Where Rheumatoid arthritis affects majorly the joints, lupus affects majorly the internal organs and skin, in addition to the joints.
• – RA can cause deformities of the joints while lupus doesn’t.
• – RA doesn’t lead to life-threatening conditions like seizure and kidney damage while lupus can cause complications.
•  – Pain caused by RA worsens in the morning and gets better during the day while pain caused by lupus is often consistent. (5)

Rheumatoid Arthritis vs Gout

Gout is another condition that shares a few similarities with Rheumatoid Arthritis which can lead to mistaking one for the other. When comparing arthritis vs gout, there are a few notable differences.

• – Gout is not an autoimmune disease whereas RA is an autoimmune disease.
• – Gout is caused by the presence of high levels of uric acid in the body while RA is caused by a default in the body’s immune system.
• – Gout primarily affects only one joint (the big toe) whereas RA affects majorly the knee, hand, and wrist joints.

What is Rheumatoid factor?

Rheumatoid arthritis can be diagnosed by running a rheumatoid factor test with your blood sample. It involves looking for rheumatoid factor (antibodies made by the immune system) in the sample. Sometimes, these antibodies accidentally attack healthy cells. High levels of rheumatoid factor can indicate an autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis, or certain types of cancer. This is used with other tests to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. (6)

Also, an imaging test can be conducted to diagnose and monitor the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. An arthritis Xray hand scan will show ulnar deviation of the metacarpophalangeal joints, subchondral cysts, ulnar translocation, swan neck deformities, scapholunate dissociation, hitchhiker’s thumb deformity, ankylosis and arthritis bumps on fingers. (7)

3.  Spondyloarthritis

This refers to some conditions that affect the joints of the spine and sacroiliac area, causing pain and swelling. It involves inflammation of the joints, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissues. It is a type of arthritis that results from degeneration of the joints and discs of the spine.

It is further divided into the following types:

• – Ankylosing Spondylitis

Refers to a type of spondyloarthritis that primarily affects the spine. It is a chronic joint inflammation in which there is a fusion of the spinal vertebrae, leading to stiffness and limited movement in the spine. The term “ankylosis means stiffness of the joint as a result of injury. This is caused by the presence of extra mineral calcium in the spine, formed when the body responds to inflammation.

New bits of bones grow in the spine, resulting in painful and stiff joints. Arthritis upper back pain can also result from this.Ankylosing Spondylitis can start during the teenage years, but is more common in early adulthood, from 20 to 30 years.

Although the exact cause of AS is not known, it has been discovered that 90% of those who develop AS carry the human leukocyte antigen B27 gene (HLA-B27). Having this gene does not mean that the carrier will develop the condition. It is estimated that 8 out of every 100 carriers do not have ankylosing spondylitis. (8)

Symptoms include:

• – Arthritis upper back pain.
• – Stiffness
• – Swelling accompanied by pain in other areas of the body like the upper back.
• – Fatigue
• – Juvenile spondyloarthritis

This refers to arthritis in children and the most common form is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. It is also termed as arthritis young age chronic condition. Any inflammatory arthritis diagnosed on or before 16 years of age is termed Juvenile spondyloarthritis. It involves inflammation of the regions where tendons and ligaments connect to the bone. The leg joints are commonly affected. This arthritis young age condition must be diagnosed early in people to avoid permanent physical damage to the joints. Symptoms include:

• – Pain and tenderness in the joints
• – Bowel inflammation
• – Fatigue
• – Arthritis eyes inflammation
• – Loss of appetite

4. Metabolic Spondylitis

Also known as gout, this is a condition that results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Usually, the body eliminates excess uric acid. However, when one eats too many foods like red meats, some seafood, alcohol, and dairy products, the body may produce more uric acid than it can get rid of. This causes buildup in the blood, causing hyperuricemia.

Accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints can lead to inflammation in the joints, resulting in the formation of lumps in the affected joints and surrounding tissues, especially in the big toe. Gout is accompanied by sudden and extreme bouts of pain.

• – Psoriatic arthritis

This is an inflammatory condition that is chronic in nature. It affects the joints and regions where tendons and ligaments are connected to the bone. Here, the body’s immune system causes painful swelling and stiffness around the joints. This disease condition is associated with an inflammatory disease known as psoriasis, characterized by a red scaly skin rash. The rash can occur on several parts of the body such as the upper back, buttocks, knees, scalp, and elbow.

Psoriatic arthritis is common among adults 30 to 50 years of age. It is also common to have severe tiredness, otherwise known as fatigue.

Symptoms

Symptoms can develop after some years of having psoriasis. While some people experience arthritis before or without having psoriasis at all.

• – Arthritis eyes pain and redness
• – Pain and stiff joint (s)
• – Dactylitis, which appears as swollen bumps in the fingers and toes.
• – Fatigue
• – Decreased flexibility
• – Infectious Arthritis

This is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops when there is a sudden and severe infection of the joint. It could be of bacterial, fungal, or viral origin. It is characterized by pain, fever, and swelling that often subsides on treatment with antibiotics and antifungals. There could also be tissue damage. Infectious arthritis affects both young people and adults and should be diagnosed on time to avoid spreading from one joint to another.

Another form of infectious arthritis is Reactive Arthritis. It occurs when an infection from another part of the body spreads to a joint, especially the knee. It could also be a result of the body’s response to an infection in some part of the body, leading to joint inflammation.

• – Lupus

Commonly known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), this is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects and damages many parts of the body such as the joints, skin, brain, kidneys, etc. It is characterized by joint aches, chest pain, headaches, fatigue, fever, rash, and sensitivity to light. Lupus causes intense inflammation and damage to the tissue in the affected regions. It is very common to see patients arthritis with lupus at the same time.

Diagnosis of Arthritis

The first symptom that people with arthritis feel is the joints pain. The general practitioner first performs a physical test to check for the presence of fluid in the joints and determine if it’s inflamed. He/she also employs the use of imaging scans like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scan to have a detailed view of your bones. This also helps to determine if the joint pain is caused by arthritis vs bursitis, temporary inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones).

Treatment For Arthritis

The main goal of arthritis treatment is to relieve symptoms, improve joint function and prevent further damage to the joints or surrounding tissues. When considering treatment options, factors such as age, symptoms, and severity should be considered. Also, the type of arthritis, like arthritis versus arthrosis is noted. It could be short-termed or long-termed and may involve more than one treatment type. They include:

1. 1. Medications such as:
2. A. Non-Steroidal AntiInflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): They help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Eg is Ibuprofen
3. B. Steroids: They reduce pain and inflammation as well as slow joint damage. Eg is Prednisolone
4. C. Disease Modifying Antirheumatoid Drugs (DMARDs): They slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Also, they prevent permanent damage to the joints. Eg Methotrexate.
5. D. Counterirritants: They are topical drugs that help in pain relief when applied to the affected joint.
6. E. Hydroxychloroquine: this has been found useful in the treatment of arthritis when pregnant.
8. 2. Cold and Hot Therapy: This involves the application of a cold compress such as an ice pack, moist heat such as a warm bath, or dry heat such as a heating pad on the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. This is equally a good alternative for managing arthritis when pregnant and arthritis bumps on fingers.
10. 3. Massage: Massaging the affected joints may help to stimulate blood flow and relieve pain.
12. 4. Acupuncture: This involves the insertion of thin needles at strategic points in the body to relieve pain.
14. 5. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): This makes use of a device to transmit mild electrical pulses to the nerve endings in the affected areas which stops the patient from feeling pain. (10)
16. 6. Surgery: This is a long-term treatment and is dependent on the type of arthritis one has. It includes joint fusion, arthroscopy (joint repair), and total joint replacement. In a few cases, complications of arthritis arise and may involve conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome (a nerve condition where the median nerve that runs along the wrist is squeezed, pinched, or damaged). An arthritis Xray hand scan can be used to distinguish if it’s only arthritis or carpal tunnel.

Since arthritis is not curative, it is recommended that lifestyle measures are taken to improve quality of life. These measures regular exercises, use of assistive devices like osteoarthritis unloader knee brace to improve balance, weight loss if obese, and quality sleep.

REFERENCES

1. 1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7621
2. 2. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm
3. 3. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/mi/2020/8293921/
4. 4. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/osteoarthritis
5. 5. https://www.healthline.com/health/lupus-and-ra
6. 6. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/rheumatoid-factor-rf-test/
7. 7. https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Rheumatoid_arthritis_x_ray
8. 8. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/spondylitis#types
9. 9. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323049#infectious-vs-reactive-arthritis
10. 10. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/arthritis

Do You Have Joints Pain Symptoms?

Joints pain is a common problem. They can come and go, but when they do, it can be tough to get rid of them. If you have joints pain symptoms, You can take a few actions to lessen the suffering and enhance your quality of life. This article will look at some of the most typical joint pain symptoms and discuss possible treatments. From exercises to medications, we have you covered. So if you’ve been struggling with joint pains, read on for tips on how to get relief.

Joints pain: What are they, and what causes them?

Joint pain is the most common type and can affect any joint. Joint pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis, a fracture, or a condition called bursitis. Other medical problems, such as an infection, can cause joint pain.

Joint pain at night is a symptom of many conditions, including arthritis and gout. Some of these conditions affect older people more than younger people. As a result, it’s critical to keep an eye out for joint pain at night to identify the source and seek treatment.

There are a variety of causes for joint pain, and it is often difficult to determine the cause. However, several common factors may contribute to joint pain. Some of the factors that may contribute to joint pain include:

1. 1. Age: As people age, their joints become more prone to damage. This damage can lead to inflammation and pain in the joint.
2. 2. Genetics: Some people are more likely than others to develop conditions like arthritis or bursitis due to their genes.
3. 3. Injury: Joints can get injured in several ways, such as from falling stairs or getting hit by a ball. Injuries can also occur as a result of sports or recreational activities.
4. 4. Stress: Chronic stress can increase your risk of arthritis or bursitis.
5. 5. Obesity: Being overweight can increase your risk of developing arthritis or bursitis.
6. 6. Poor posture: Poor posture can cause joint pain and inflammation.
7. 7. Therapies: Certain treatments, such as physical therapy, can help to improve joint pain and function.

Types of Joint Pain

There are several different types of joint pain. Some joint pain is caused by an injury, while others may be due to various factors, including arthritis.

Here are some common types of joint pain:

1. 1. Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage to the joints. Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent kind of arthritis, affecting the joints’ cartilage. This type of arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in the joints and difficulty moving them.
2. 2. Ibuprofen-Associated Joint Pain: Ibuprofen is a medication commonly used to treat pain and inflammation. Some people may get joint pain as a result of it. This joint pain is usually temporary and goes away after the ibuprofen wears off.
3. 3. Sports Injuries: Sports injuries can cause many different types of joint pain. These injuries can occur when you hit your head or body on something during sports or when your muscles contract too hard while playing sports. Sports injuries can also occur when you exercise too much without warming up first or overuse your muscles.
4. 4. Knee Pain: Knee pain is a common joint pain. Several different things, including arthritis, injuries, and overuse, can cause it. Knee pain can often be very painful and difficult to deal with.
5. 5. Back Pain: Back pain is one of the most common types of joint pain. Several things, including arthritis, injuries, and overuse, can cause this pain. Back pain can often be very uncomfortable and difficult to deal with.

Joints Pain Symptoms

It really affects when you have joints pain all over body. Joint pain can be a sign of an underlying health condition, and it can be very difficult to diagnose. There are numerous types of joints in the body, and each can experience different pain. Here are some common joint pain symptoms :

• – Inflammation: When the joint is damaged, inflamed tissue may form. This inflammation can cause intense pain and make movement difficult.
• – Tenderness: If the joint is injured or has been treated improperly, the surrounding tissues may be tender to the touch. This means that even slight pressure on the joint causes intense pain.
• – Swelling: Swelling may occur around the affected area because of fluid accumulation or inflammation. This swelling may make movement difficult or impossible.
• – Numbness: If there is damage to nerve fibers close to the affected joint, numbness may occur in that area.
• – Paresthesias: Paresthesias are sensations unrelated to the actual physical sensation. This can include tingling, warmth, and pain.

How to treat joint pain: Treatment options

Many treatment options for joint pain depend on the cause and severity. The most common treatments include rest, ice, ibuprofen, and over-the-counter medications.

If the joint pain is caused by arthritis or another condition that requires medication, your doctor may prescribe a specific medication. The most commonly used treatment for joint pain is NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications). NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation in the joints. Your doctor may also recommend other treatments, such as physical therapy or acupuncture.

Some milder forms of joint pain can be treated with self-care measures such as ice packs and rest. If the pain is severe or doesn’t respond to self-care measures, your doctor may prescribe medications or surgery to correct the problem.

Prevention of joint pain: Tips for keeping your joints healthy

If you’re experiencing joint pain, there are some things you can do to help keep your joints healthy. Here are some tips:

1. 1. Exercise regularly. Exercise helps improve circulation, which is important for keeping your joints healthy. Plus, exercise can also reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which can help relieve joint pain.
2. 2. Eat a balanced diet. A good diet can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. In particular, make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
3. 3. Get enough rest. Getting enough sleep is key for maintaining good joint health. Studies show that people who get enough sleep tend to have less inflammation in the body and fewer joint problems than those who don’t get enough sleep.
4. 4. Try natural remedies if you’re struggling with joint pain. Some natural remedies like turmeric or ginger can help reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain symptoms. If these remedies don’t work, speak with your doctor about other options, like analgesics or corticosteroids.

Joints Pain in Legs

Joints pain in the legs can be difficult to manage. It can come and go, be localized or widespread, and cause discomfort. The great news is that there are treatments available for leg joint discomfort.

One way to deal with joints pain in your legs is to make sure you’re using good posture. If you slouch or hunch over, this puts pressure on your joints, making them hurt more often than they would otherwise. Make sure you sit up straight when you’re working at your desk, walking around town, or watching TV at home—this simple change can help reduce joints pain in legs and improve your overall health.

Another thing that may help prevent joints pain in legs is staying active and moving around as much as possible throughout the day. You don’t have to do intense workouts every day—take walks around town or the block every morning before breakfast! This will help keep your muscles strong while also keeping them limber enough, so they don’t start hurting when they get stiffer later on down the line.

Finally, if all else fails, try some natural remedies for joint pain, like ginger root tea or lemon balm tea! These are both great options because they work fast but

Joints Pain in Pregnancy

Joint pain is a common pregnancy symptom, with about 20% of pregnant women experiencing it.

Joint pain in Pregnancy can be caused by the hormone relaxin and other changes in your body’s chemistry. Relaxin is responsible for relaxing and stretching the ligaments in your pelvis, which makes room for your baby to grow. But relaxin also relaxes the joints in your knees, ankles, hips, and wrists, causing them to swell and become more mobile.

The most common symptom of joint Pain in Pregnancy is swollen ankles due to fluid retention. Other symptoms include:

• – Knee pain from increased mobility and stiffness.
• – Back pain from a change in posture.
• – Hip pain from increased flexibility.
• – Wrist pain from swelling.
• – Headaches from tension headaches or migraines triggered by hormone fluctuations.

During pregnancy, hormones cause changes in your body that can affect your joints. These changes include:

* increased fluid volume (swelling)

* increased blood flow to your joints and muscles (swelling)

* loosening of the ligaments that hold your joints together (looseness)

* swelling in your hands and feet (edema)

Glucosamine

For joint pain glucosamine is one of the most effective treatments for joint pain, so if you’re looking for ways to manage your joint pain, consider adding glucosamine supplements.

For joint pain, glucosamine is the way to go. No matter your age, glucosamine can help reduce inflammation and joint pain. It protects and builds up cartilage in your joints, which helps keep them healthy and pain-free.

Glucosamine also helps reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease affecting the joints. This means that if you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis or are at risk for developing it in the future, glucosamine could help you avoid surgery or other treatments necessary to continue living comfortably with your condition.

Other Ways to Reduce Joint pain

A simple exercise regimen is one of the easiest ways to reduce joint pain. Stretching exercises like yoga or Pilates can help relieve tension in your joints and muscles, allowing them to relax and loosen up. You should also consider adding strength training into your routine if you haven’t already—stronger muscles will be better equipped to support your joints as they move through their full range of motion.

Another way to ease your symptoms is by taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen. These medications are designed to reduce inflammation in your body, so it doesn’t have to fight off infection as much anymore; this can help with pain management over time as well!

Joint pain is a common problem. Various factors, including injury, arthritis, and degenerative joint disease, can cause it.

Joint pain can make it difficult to perform daily activities and cause you to feel like you’re aging faster than normal. Fortunately, many natural remedies can help alleviate joint pain. They are joint pain best medicine

Here is a list of the top 5 natural remedies for joint pain:

1. 1. Olive leaf extract: Olive leaf extract is an antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases such as lupus or Crohn’s disease by inhibiting interleukin 1beta production; however, it should not be used by people with a blood clotting disorder or those taking blood thinning medications due to its anticoagulant effects (like aspirin).
2. 2. Devil’s Claw Root: Devil’s claw root inhibits prostaglandin synthesis while increasing prostacyclin’s production (which counterbalances prostaglandins’ effects). As a result, devil’s claw root may reduce inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
3. 3. Ginger Root: Ginger root is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation. As a result, ginger root may help reduce pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
4. 4. Turmeric contains curcumin, an active ingredient that has been shown to inhibit tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which is involved in many inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis.
5. 5. Grape Seed Extract: Grape seed extract is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radicals, which cause inflammation. As a result, grape seed extract may help reduce pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion

You must consult a physician if you’re experiencing joint pain all over your body. Various conditions, such as arthritis, bursitis, and gout, can cause joint pain. It can also be caused by injuries or sports injuries that affect the body’s joints.

You must see a doctor immediately if you notice joint pain in multiple body parts. The sooner you get treatment for this condition, the better your chance of reducing its severity and shortening its duration.

It is possible to treat joint pain with a mix of medicines and physical therapy because it typically has an underlying cause. If your pain is severe or doesn’t respond to treatment, you might need surgery. To receive the best care possible for you, be sure to discuss your symptoms with your doctor.

Do You Experience Elbow Pain Into Forearm

Elbow pain is usually not a very serious condition. But just like pain in any other part of the body, it can get very frustrating. You use your upper limbs for many movements that make up your daily activities. Most of these movements involve the elbow joint. As a result, pain in the elbow can make performing your daily activities a very difficult task. This article discusses causes, complications and treatment for elbow pain into forearm.

Common causes of Elbow Pain Into Forearm

The most common cause of elbow pain is overuse (1). If you regularly partake in sports, jobs, hobbies, etc. that require constant and repetitive movement of the elbow joints, you are more likely to develop elbow pain. These are the most common causes of elbow pain:

• – Fracture

A fall on the upper limb, especially the elbow can result in a fracture of the elbow joints and the surrounding bony areas (3). Other sources of trauma (such as Road Traffic Accidents, blunt force, etc) to the upper limb could also result in a fracture of the elbow. Pain alongside swelling, redness, and an increase in temperature are common symptoms of such fractures. A common fracture of the elbow is an olecranon fracture. Tiny cracks in bones around the elbow (stress fractures) (10) can also cause pain in elbow.

• – Bursitis

Bursitis simply means inflammation of the bursa (4). A bursa is a sac-like cavity in the joint which contains a fluid. The sac together with its encompassing fluid serves as a cushion between the bones, muscles, and tendons surrounding your joint. Excessive use of the elbow joint leads to inflammation of the bursa

• – Golfer’s Elbow

This condition is caused by overusing the elbow in a constant wrist or fingers-clenched position and making repeated motions similar to a golfer’s strike (5). Golf elbow pain is caused by inflammation of the tendons of your forearm which attach to the inner bump of your elbow. This results in elbow pain into forearm.

• – Tennis Elbow

This is similar to a golfer’s elbow and is one of the most talked about causes of elbow pain. Unlike a golfer’s elbow, inflammation is at the tendon that attaches to the outer bump of your elbow (12). Do not be deceived by its name, this cause of burning elbow pain is not limited to just tennis players. You are likely to develop a tennis elbow if you constantly make similar movements to a tennis player.

Carpenters, plumbers, painters, and butchers are at risk of developing symptoms of tennis elbow. The tennis elbow is also called lateral epicondylitis. In addition to the pain and swelling at the elbow, tennis elbow is also characterized by elbow pain extension from the outer part of the elbow to the wrist and forearm muscles.

If you have tennis elbow, you might also observe that you have a weak grip. You might also experience elbow pain after lifting, and increased pain (15) when using tools, opening bottles or jars, squeezing objects, and shaking hands. One classical feature of tennis elbow is burning elbow pain and elbow pain after lifting heavy objects.

• – Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis simply means the degeneration of the articular surface of a joint. Osteoarthritis at the elbow is not very common (compared to weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and ankles) but is still a possible cause of pain at the elbow joint (6).

Professions, athletes, and hobbyists that make constant repetitive use of the elbow are more prone to elbow osteoarthritis. Other risk factors are old age and other diseases that reduce bone density. A history of trauma, fracture, osteomalacia (bone softness), and osteomyelitis (bone infection) at the elbow predisposes you to elbow osteoarthritis.

• – Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome is characterized by the compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow and forearm to elbow pain. The ulnar nerve is one of the three most important nerves that enter the forearm and supplies innervation to the forearm, wrist, hand, and fingers (13).

Cubital tunnel syndrome is also referred to as ulnar nerve entrapment. In addition to the elbow pain into forearm, there is also pain at the inner side of the elbow. Another common symptom of cubital tunnel syndrome is paraesthesia (numbness and tingling sensations) along the inner side of the forearm and also at the fourth and fifth fingers.

• – Osteochondritis Dissecans

This joint condition is caused by little or no supply of blood to the bone of the joint (7). This causes the cartilage and bone to lose strength and stability which results in reduced movement at the joint and also pain. It usually occurs after an injured elbow joint or very intense activity performed over several months.

• – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakes the body for a foreign harmful substance and then fights it (8). This can affect a lot of systems and organs in the body and the extent of this damage varies from person to person.

• – Sprain

Spraining ligaments around the elbow may be very painful. Spraining a ligament means getting a tear or stretch in a ligament (9). Sprains are usually caused by sudden excessive movement at a joint that results in stretching a ligament beyond its normal limits. Severe sprains usually result in excessive tears that may require surgery to repair.

• – Dislocation

Just like fractures, dislocating any of the bones that make up the elbow joints also results in great pain. Fractures and dislocation at the elbow joint should be immediately reported to the hospital as they usually require urgent medical care.

A common dislocation at the elbow joint is posterior elbow dislocation. This occurs when the ulna and radius (the two bones that make up the forearm) are forcefully displaced behind the humerus (the bone of the upper arm). This is the most common type of dislocation in children below the age of 10 years.

In addition to the causes listed above, elbow pain may also be caused by other types of arthritis (such as septic arthritis, gout, and reactive arthritis), and tendinitis (11). Tendinitis of the triceps results in tricep near elbow pain.

Complications of Elbow Pain

Usually, when you have elbow pain, the elbow joint does not suffer alone. Elbow pain, especially when prolonged, can result in several other things beyond the pain. Underlisted is some common complications of elbow pain:

• – Reduced Range of Motion

Pain at the elbow causes you to not move your elbow adequately to avoid the pain. This temporary reduction in the range of motion at the elbow joint could result in a semi-permanent loss of motion if the pain is prolonged.

• – Muscle weakness

The strength of muscles reduces when not in adequate use over a long period. Pain at the elbow leads to reduced use of the muscles of the upper limb especially the biceps, brachialis, brachioradialis, and triceps that control the elbow joint.

• – Reduced ability to perform activities of daily living

The elbow joint is very crucial to the performance of simple daily tasks such as grooming, toileting, feeding, and even our occupations. Pain at the elbow immensely affects our ability to perform these tasks. This limitation usually results in reduced quality of life.

Diagnosis of Elbow Pain

Diagnosing elbow pain means finding out the cause of your pain. Your doctor or physical therapist will help find the cause of your elbow pain through a series of objective and subjective assessments such as:

• – Medical History / History of Elbow Pain

You will be asked various questions revolving around the severity and history of your pain. You will also be asked questions on the type and frequency of the physical activities you have been undergoing in the preceding days, weeks, and months. You will also be required to provide information on any previous medical conditions or trauma that could have resulted in your pain.

• – Physical Examination and Assessment

Your doctor or physical therapist will examine the joint for signs of inflammation. You might also be asked to perform some movements that could elicit pain in the joint and help the examiner pinpoint the cause of your pain.

• – Radiographic Investigation

Your doctor or physical therapist can request radiographs such as MRI, CT Scan, and X-rays to take a look at the bones that make up the elbow joint and the joint itself.

• – Laboratory Test

In a case where conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis are suspected, you might be required to take a laboratory test to enable the medical personnel to make an accurate diagnosis. A biopsy of the bursa fluid can also be requested.

Treatment For Elbow Pain

Elbow pain can be managed in the following ways:

• – Rest

Since most causes of elbow pain revolve around overuse and repetitive movement of the elbow joint, the foremost line of managing elbow pain is rest. A proper rest may reduce pain in the elbow.

• – Medications

Yes, you guessed right! Painkillers are one of the most common treatment options for elbow pain. Some painkillers can be gotten over the counter while you might need your doctor’s prescription for some other types. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are also common drugs used to manage elbow pain. They help reduce inflammation and associated pain.

Your doctor must be aware of any drug hypersensitivity or allergy before the prescription. Your doctor might also prescribe drugs that help to reduce the effects of rheumatoid arthritis (Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)). Your doctor will prescribe some antibiotics in the case of infections at the elbow joint. Ensure that you use your medications as directed by your doctor, even after you feel better. Steroid injections are also sometimes prescribed to reduce elbow pain.

• – Surgery

You may require surgery to repair the elbow joint depending on the cause of your elbow pain. Severe damage to ligaments and tendons usually requires surgical repair for better prognosis and faster healing. Some fractures are also hard to manage using conservative methods such as arm slings, Plaster of Paris, etc. These types of fractures usually require a surgical reduction.

• – Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a great conservative management option for various types of elbow pain. A physical therapist is a trained medical professional that can expertly assess your elbow pain and prescribe and apply various evidence-based treatment modalities such as ice therapy, massage, progressive exercises, elbow pain stretches, etc. These options may help reduce pain and tenderness and improve elbow function and movement over time.

Home Management of Elbow Pain

The management of inflammation and pain at the elbow joint is dependent on the cause of such pain and the severity of the cause. You can manage some elbow pains at home. For others, you need a team of health professionals to get the right care.

Depending on the cause of your elbow pain, the following might be useful in reducing your elbow pain (2):

• – Ice Pack, Heat Pack, Hot Water Bottle: Placing these over the painful area for an extended period can provide a level of relief for your pain.
• – Braces or Immobilizers: Elbow braces can be very helpful in reducing elbow pain, especially at very early stages of injury. They also help to protect the joint, allowing better healing by disallowing further injury to the bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the joint.
• – Stopping and reducing overuse of the elbow joint: If there is a particular activity that you are aware might be the cause of your elbow pain, you would have to stop or greatly reduce such activity to allow the joint to heal. However, gentle elbow pain stretches help in pain reduction.
• – Taping: Elbow pain kt tape (kinesiotape) provides some placebo pain relief (12). In addition to this effect, when done properly, elbow pain kt tape could act as a brace and protect the ligaments and tendons of the elbow joints from further injury.
• – Elbow Padding

Ensure that you discuss all modalities with your doctor or physical therapist before trying them out at home.

Prevention of Elbow Pain

Usually, elbow pain is caused by overuse of the elbow joint for jobs, sports, and hobbies. Elbow pain can be prevented by (14):

• – Using the proper sporting techniques.
• – Using elbow padding.
• – Warming up and stretching the muscles around the elbow before sporting activities.
• – Using a properly-sized grip on sports equipment and applying the right tension when handling racquets.

References

1.https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/elbow-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050874

2.https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/152120#_noHeaderPrefixedContent

3.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-arm/symptoms-causes/syc-20353260

4.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/golfers-elbow/symptoms-causes/syc-20372868

5.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bursitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353242

6.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925

7.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteochondritis-dissecans/symptoms-causes/syc-20375887

8.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648

9.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sprains/symptoms-causes/syc-20377938

10.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stress-fractures/symptoms-causes/syc-20354057

11.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378243

12.https://www.physio-pedia.com/Tennis_Elbow_Management

13.https://www.physio-pedia.com/Cubital_Tunnel_Syndrome

14.https://www.healthline.com/health/elbow-pain#prevention

15.https://www.healthline.com/health/tennis-elbow#symptoms

How To Reduce Knee Pain On Stairs

Knee pain on stairs is a common problem among people with osteoarthritis. The joints of the knee are made up of bones or cartilage. When the cartilage wears down, it can create friction between the bones, which causes pain and swelling.

The sensitive knee joint is put under a lot of strain during everyday duties like lifting and kneeling and high-impact exercises like jogging and aerobics.

The knee is made up of the following parts:

• – Tibia: The shin bone or larger bone of the lower leg is this.
• – Femur: The thigh bone, or upper leg bone, is this.
• – Patella: The kneecap is seen here.

A cartilage layer covers each bone’s ends, absorbing shock and safeguarding the knee. The knee comprises two lengthy leg bones joined by tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

The quadriceps muscles, found on the front of the thighs and straighten the knee, are one of the two muscles that work there.

Knee Relief

Knee pain can be a serious problem for people of all ages. It can lead to severe joint damage and inflammation, leading to chronic pain and loss of mobility.

Arthritis is among the most typical causes of knee discomfort. Arthritis is a condition that occurs when your bones rub together, causing inflammation and damage to the cartilage in your joints.

Knee pain can also come from other things, like overuse and improper alignment. Sometimes it’s because your body isn’t used to doing what it needs to do to keep your knees healthy!

Fortunately, there are many ways to relieve knee pain with treatments like acupuncture and physical therapy.

What are the benefits of knee relief?

Knee relief can be beneficial in many ways. For one, it can ease the pain often caused by swollen joints. It can also help with arthritis and other joint pain issues. Knee relief also helps to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which results in improved flexibility and mobility.

Knee relief is an effective method of pain management. When you use knee relief, you can:

• – Relieve pain in the knee joint
• – Ease tightness and stiffness in the joint
• – Reduce swelling in the knee

Improve blood circulation to the area

Knee Pain Ligament

Knee pain ligament is a common complaint. Many factors can contribute to knee pain ligament, including age, sex, and activity level. The most common cause of knee pain ligament is osteoarthritis, characterized by a breakdown of the cartilage in the knee joint. This can cause pain and swell in different areas of your knee joint. Other causes of knee pain ligament include:

• – Tightness in the iliotibial band (IT band) or patellar tendon
• – Injury or trauma to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
• – Inflammation from overuse or repetitive activities

Knee Pain Gout

Knee pain can be caused by gout, an inflammatory disease that affects the joints. The most common gout symptom is swelling and knee pain, which may be accompanied by redness, warmth, and tenderness. However, there are many other symptoms of gout that could be mistaken for normal knee pain. Gout can also cause stiffness and pain in your fingers, ankles, and elbows. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor to determine whether gout is the culprit.

How Can I Get Knee Relief?

Knee pain is a common health issue that can be difficult to deal with. You may have tried various treatments, including physical therapy and medications, but you still feel the same pain. Unfortunately, there is no single solution that will work for everyone.

We recommend trying these suggestions:

1) Check your shoes for wear and tear. If your shoes are too worn out or have fallen apart, they could contribute to the problem by cutting off circulation to your knee joint. Try switching to a new pair of shoes that are more comfortable and less likely to cause pain or injury.

2) Change the way you walk or run. If walking or running is causing pain in your knee joint, try changing how you move while doing these activities. Instead of walking or running directly forward, try taking short steps backward while taking small sideways forward every so often (like when walking upstairs). This movement pattern helps keep blood flowing around the body more relaxed and reduces pressure around joints such as knees when walking faster than usual.

3) Use heat packs rather than ice packs on painful joints during cold weather, such as winter months when temperatures drop below freezing levels outside due to the wind chill factor (which causes skin temperature drops). Heat packs are much better for soothing joint pain and swelling due to their ability to warm up affected areas. Ice packs should be used only for the first few minutes after an injury occurs so that blood flow can be slowed down from bleeding wounds or other injuries.

Knee Pain Lunges

Lunges are a great way to relieve knee pain. Lunges are low-impact exercises that help you achieve better leg alignment and circulation.

Lunges are a great way to relieve knee pain. Lunges are low-impact exercises that help you achieve better leg alignment and circulation. Lunges are a great way to relieve knee pain.

They work by moving you through a range of motion that is more comfortable on your knees than squats or other exercises that require you to bend at the waist.

Lunges also help strengthen your core and lower back muscles, which can be beneficial when you have knee pain.

When you’re experiencing knee pain, it can be difficult to figure out the problem. There are different types of knee pain, some of which can be very difficult to diagnose—and even more difficult to treat.

Knee pain like sharp needle is one of the most common types of knee pain, and it can be extremely painful. Sharp needle knee pain is caused by a lack of circulation in your legs. It’s often caused by an injury or a condition that causes swelling or inflammation in your leg muscles, such as Achilles tendonitis.

See your doctor for evaluation if this knee pain persists for more than two weeks. Surgery may occasionally be required to alleviate the symptoms of this condition and restore healthy circulation to your arms and legs.

Knee Pain Kinesio Tape

Kinesio taping is a type of therapeutic taping used in sports medicine for over 30 years. The idea is simple: using tape to enhance muscle function and increase circulation can help relieve knee pain.

Most people who go to the doctor do so because they suffer from knee discomfort, but it shouldn’t be ignored! Several factors might lead to knee pain, including osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or muscle strains. Each of these conditions requires different treatment methods; however, Kinesio taping can help with all three types of knee pain.

If you’re dealing with knee pain—whether from your knees themselves or something else—Kinesio taping can offer some relief. It’s also a great way to prevent future injuries if you’re already dealing with an issue like osteoarthritis.

Knee Pain VA Rating

Knee pain VA rating starts from 0% to 60%. The ranking is based on how much knee discomfort or immobility there is.

A veteran might be given a temporary 100% rating after surgery if too much wear and tear on the knee necessitates surgery.

Numerous knee VA ratings include measurements of the knee’s range of flexion and extension (how much the knee can straighten). Normally, flexion ranges from 135 to 140 degrees. The range of normal extension is 0 to -10 degrees. The VA will also look at knee instability, which is the ability of the knee to hold itself together. If this is not present, there can be pain and mobility problems.

Knee Pain in Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant and experiencing knee pain, you’re not alone.

Pregnancy causes your body to go through a lot of changes—from the growing of your baby to the stretching of your ligaments and tendons. And when it comes to your joints and bones, there’s plenty of extra work for them to do (including cramping up from all that extra blood circulation).

That’s why keeping up with your daily exercise routine during pregnancy is important: even mild exercises like walking can help with joint pain. And if you’ve been feeling discomfort in one joint, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about any options they might recommend!

Knee Pain On Stairs

Whenever you experience knee pain on stairs, try these tips:

* Consider using an assistive device such as a stair-chair lift or scooter to move around easily during your daily routine. This can help reduce the impact your weight has on your knees, which will help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.

* Keep moving! Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles in your legs and feet as well as increase blood flow to your joints. Walking for 10 minutes at least three times per week is an easy way to start getting some exercise into your life!

* Apply ice massage after standing for a while (preferably not while wearing socks). You can do this by wrapping ice cubes in cloths or plastic bags (be sure they’re not too cold), then applying them gently over each joint of your leg or foot for 5 minutes every hour or so. This will aid in reducing swelling and easing inflammation-related pain.

Knee Pain Lower Inside

If you are experiencing knee pain in the area of your inner thigh, it could be due to various reasons. The most common reason for this type of knee pain is inflammation from an injury or strain. If you have been experiencing this type of knee pain for a long period, it may be wise to see a doctor to rule out other potential causes.

Knee Exercises

1. 1. Exercises for the Knees and Hips

The greatest method to avoid injury is to have strong, flexible muscles and joints that can withstand tension and injury. Certain exercises can help reduce some pain episodes in basic cases of knee discomfort. Remember to avoid any workout that causes pain.

2. 2. Knee to Chest Twice

Begin on your back with your legs extended out. Bring both knees together and place your hands on the top of the shin below the knee area. The back of the thighs is an alternative location for your hands. Bring your knees up to your chest gradually and calmly, and hold this position for 10 seconds. Then return to the starting position.

3. 3. Leg Cycle Exercise is an example of an “unweighted exercise”

Begin by lying on your back with your legs up. For balance, extend both arms out to the sides. Start riding with your feet in the air. Increase the knee joint’s range of motion until each leg’s flexion is straight and extended, then 90 degrees bent.

4. 4. Knee Full Extension Workout

Begin by sitting in a high enough chair to allow the knee to bend to a 90-degree angle. Raise the leg slowly until it is horizontal. Hold for five seconds, then carefully lower it to the ground. Rep with the other leg. Do twenty repeats.

5. 5. Stretching a single hamstring

sit on the floor with your left leg outstretched and your right leg bowed. Reach out with both hands toward the toes of your left foot. Instead of bouncing, slowly stretch. Hold the stretch for ten seconds before returning to the beginning position. Perform ten reps before switching legs.

6. 6. With a chair, raise your legs horizontally

Utilize two chairs or a chair next to a sofa. Sit down and stretch one leg, so it rests on the other chair. Maintaining its straightness throughout, slowly lift the leg no higher than twelve inches. Ten seconds of holding, then a return to the starting position. Each leg should be repeated ten times.

Conclusion

Knee pain alleviation is essential to the healthy functioning of the knee joint, which is why you need it. The application of knee relief can help prevent damage to the ligaments and cartilage of the knee, as well as discomfort that may be brought on by the movement of the knee joint.

While your legs are relaxing, kneading them can assist reduce swelling and inflammation, and massaging the affected area can also benefit the situation. Consider utilizing a laser device as a potential treatment method if you’re looking for something more effective.

Do You Know What Gout Looks Like?

Have you ever wondered what gout looks like? Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis that causes swelling and pain in the joints, usually occurring as flares that last for more than a week. Gout flares often start from the big toe. Gout occurs when high amount of uric acid build up in the body, which then forms needle-shaped crystals in and around a joint. This leads to inflammation of the joint.

The joint of the big toe is the most affected site of an acute gout attack. Unless gout is treated, these attacks can recur. Other sites like fingers, elbows, and knees are where people may experience gout (2). Gout attacks are characterized by swelling, warmth, reddish discoloration, marked tenderness, and rapid onset of pain at the affected joint. Consult a physician even if the pain is gone. Over time, they can harm tendons, joints, and other tissues.

Gout moves through several stages, which include:

• – Hyperuricemia- elevated levels of Uric acid in the blood and crystals forming in the joint, but without any symptoms.
• – Gout flares- This is when you experience an attack of intense pain and inflammation in your joints.
• – Interval gout- This is the time between gout attacks with no symptoms.
• – Tophi is a late stage of gout where Uric acid crystals build up in areas of the body. Tophi can cause permanent damage to your joints and kidneys. Proper treatment of gout can prevent the development of tophi.

What Gout Looks Like For Leg And Neck

Gout can be awfully painful and incapacitating but treatable in almost all patients. Gout is a major foot problem, but it can also involve several other joints. It is important to know how to identify and treat it early to prevent complications.

When the body makes high amount of uric acid, also known as urate, or gets rid of too little, urate builds up in the body. Uric acid is produced daily when our bodies disintegrate purines. Purines are natural chemicals produced in the body, but they are also found in certain foods. However, not all people with high levels of Uric acid will not develop gout.

Gout and arthritis are often intercepted. Gout is a more complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone, and it is the most common form of arthritis.

The joint mostly involved in gout is the big toe (the first metacarpals) and is called podagra. More than one joint may be involved in a gout attack (and it can be any joint in the body), with the most common sites being in the feet, knees, elbows, and ankles. Rarely, gout neck occurs. They are uncommon manifestations of gout which involves tophaceous deposits in the larynx and auricular helix, as well as gouty arthritis of the temporomandibular, cricoarytenoid, and sternoclavicular, joints (1).

How Is Gout Diagnosed? 

A physical exam, medical history, and tests can help diagnose gout. Gout tests to be done include:

• – Gout blood test to check uric acid levels. However, not everyone who has high blood uric acid develops gout, and some people with normal uric acid levels may develop gout.
• – Joint fluid analysis- fluid from the painful joint(s) is withdrawn and examined under a microscope for the presence of uric acid crystals. This is the accurate way to diagnose gout.
• – Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging, X-rays, dual-energy computerized tomography, and ultrasound visualizes uric acid crystals in joints.

How Is gout treated?

Gout can be efficiently managed and treated with self-management strategies and medical treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend a medical treatment plan to

• – Manage the pain of a flare. Treatment for flares consists of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen, ibuprofen, Diclofenac, etc. NSAIDs are generally prescribed for people below 65 who do not take blood thinners or have any history of bleeding because NSAIDs can induce intestinal bleeding and ulcers. Corticosteroids and the anti-inflammatory drug colchicine can help decrease pain and swelling. Lower doses of colchicine produce fewer side effects like diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Colchicine is best taken at the onset of an attack.
• – Prevent future flares- changes to your lifestyle and diet, such as losing weight, reducing alcohol intake, and eating less purine-rich food (like organ meat or red meat), can help avoid future attacks. Emphasis on veggies, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and other whole, unprocessed foods. Changing medications like diuretics associated with hyperuricemia can also help.
• – Prevent the formation of tophi due to increased levels of uric acid in the body. Tophi are hard, uric acid crystals below the skin. For people with frequent acute flares or chronic gout, preventive therapy is recommended to decrease the level of Uric acid in the blood using drugs like febuxostat, allopurinol, and pegloticase.

What Are The Symptoms Of Gout?

Symptoms of gout are not usually obvious unless there is a gout attack. These attacks usually last between four to seven days. Below are some common gout symptoms:

• – Attacks

When you have gout, Uric acid crystals build up in your joints for years without you being aware they are there. Over time, excess crystals in the joint start to leak from the cartilage into the space in a joint.

The tiny, hard, sharp Uric acid crystals rub against the soft lining of the joint, causing a lot of pain and inflammation. This is known as a flare or attack of gout. A flare is a period in which the symptoms come back or get worse.

When an attack of gout occurs, the affected joint becomes very painful, red, and hot and appears swollen.

The onset of a gout Attack is very quick, mostly during the night.

If a gout leg is left untreated, attacks may become frequent and can spread to other joints. Although gout mostly affects the big toe, other joints include the ankles, knees, elbow, wrist, and fingers.

A gout attack can occur in several joints at the same time.

• – Tophi (bumps under the skin)

When Uric acid crystals form outside of the joints and are seen under the skin, forming small, hard lumps, it is called tophi. the white color of the crystals can sometimes be visible beneath the skin. The most common areas for tophi are:

• – back of the heel
• – over the top of the toes
• – front of the knee
• – around the elbow
• – backs of the fingers and wrists
• – the ears

Although tophi are not usually painful, they can obstruct one’s daily activities. They sometimes become inflamed, open up and leak fluid with gritty white substances – these are the uric acid crystals.

Tophi also grows within the joints and cause damage to the cartilage and bone. Complications of tophi when not properly treated include a decrease in joint mobility, necrosis of the skin (cell death), ulcerations, compression of nearby nerves when it occurs in the spine, wrist, or elbow (3)

• – Fever

The inflammation that occurs during a gout flare can become severe enough to cause gout with fever, fatigue, and malaise. These symptoms often occur when there is a gout attack on two or more joints.

Risk Factors Of Gout

There are many risk factors for gout that increases your chance of developing it.

• – Family history

This is the most common risk factor for developing gout, especially when many family members already have it, such as your parents or grandparents. Even though your kidneys are healthy, sometimes inherited genes make it difficult for your kidneys to flush uric acid as well as they should.

 – Obesity

Gout is more common in people who are overweight. The obese you are, the more uric acid your body produces. This causes your body to produce more uric acid than your kidneys can cope with.

Being obese also makes it more likely that you will develop:

• – type 2 diabetes
•  – fats in your blood.
• – high blood pressure
• – high cholesterol

These conditions can all reduce how much Uric acid is filtered by your kidneys.

• – Gender and age 

Gout is four times more rampant in men than women. It affects men of any age, but the risk is higher in older men. Gout rarely occurs in women before menopause. This is because the estrogen in women increases how much uric acid is filtered out by the kidneys. After reaching menopause, estrogen levels go reduced and uric acid levels go up.

• – Medications 

Some medications can increase your risk of developing gout, examples include:

• – Low-dose aspirin.
• – Diuretics, which remove excess fluid.
• – Niacin (Vitamin B3), when taken in large amounts.
• – Cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant for people who treat autoimmune diseases or have organ transplants
• – Another risk factor for developing gout is eating foods rich in purines (usually from animal sources), a substance that breaks down into urate. Examples include trout, mussels, and codfish.

What Triggers Gout? 

Gout and Tomatoes

Some studies have shown that there is a correlation between eating gout and tomatoes triggers. Any food that increases the levels of uric acid in the body is a risk for people with gout. Since one’s diet can play a huge role in increased levels of uric acid in the blood, it is important to pay attention to the foods that trigger a gout flare.

Many people with gout have identified tomatoes as one food that triggers gout flare-ups. Tomatoes contain two potential gout triggers: phenolic acid and glutamate (4). Although they are only present in minute quantities, some people have reported tomatoes as their gout triggers. Tomatoes may be worth removing from your diet if you believe they cause gout flare-ups.

Examples of food with highly concentrated levels of tomatoes include ketchup, pasta sauces, and vegetable juices.

Caffeine and Gout Risk 

Studies have shown that caffeine can precipitate gout flare in some people. Coffee might help prevent gout in people who do not already have the disease, but the caffeine it contains could spell doom if you already live with gout especially if you are not a consistent coffee drinker. The reason is that caffeine has a similar structure to allopurinol, a drug used in the treatment of gout.

When you first start taking allopurinol, there is an increased risk of gout attacks since the uric acid is been mobilized from body tissues. Consequently, an inconsistent coffee drinker will activate this pathway, causing more gout attacks. Over time, taking allopurinol consistently reduces the uric acid in the blood, such that attacks no longer occur.

Turf Toe vs Gout

Turf toe can be easily mistaken for gout. Turf toe, also known as hyperextension, occurs when the big toe is far too bent towards the top of your foot (5). This can cause a sprain of your ligaments or toe.

How are gout and turf toe different?

In gout arthritis, damage to the joint occurs internally, which means there is uric acid buildup and urate crystals at the joint. But with turf toe, the injury to the joint is from an external force that bent the foot in a type of way.

The symptoms of gout arthritis are due to the formation of uric acid crystals at the joints or around the soft tissue, making it painful and difficult to move joints. In turf toe, the symptoms are due to hyperextension of the toe and surrounding ligaments and joints. Another difference between gout and turf toe is that

Gout can be managed with medications, diet, and lifestyle changes. While in turf toe, none of these treatment strategies help with turf toe.

Septic arthritis is a serious complication of gout arthritis. It is a painful joint infection that is caused by germs traveling through the bloodstream from another part of the body. Septic arthritis also occurs when a penetrating injury, such as trauma or an animal bite delivers germs directly into the joint.

gout and septic arthritis are major diseases that are clinically similar and often cannot be distinguished without a synovial fluid analysis.

Reference 

1. 1. https://www.karger.com/Article/Fulltext/500514
2. 2. https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/ss/slideshow-gout-diet
3. 3. https://www.arthritis-health.com/types/gout/5-unusual-gout-symptoms
4. 4https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4541734/
5. 5. https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/turf-toe-symptoms-causes-and-treatments
6. 6. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bone-and-joint-infections/symptoms-causes/syc-20350755

My Shoulder Pain: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Do you often question yourself what to do for my shoulder pain and whether I should see a shoulder pain chiropractor? You might be having shoulder pain from lifting at work or shoulder pain while sleeping at home. Sometimes, home care can take care of shoulder pain, and other times, it will involve the use of medications prescribed by health workers, and most times physical therapy. This article will explore all you need to know about the causes of shoulder pain, the associated symptoms, and how to treat, and prevent subsequent shoulder pain (1).

Shoulder Pain Background

The shoulder joint consists of broad and many motion ranges. When there is an issue with the shoulder joint, it obstructs the ability to move which will result in pain, swelling, and a whole lot of discomfort. Aside from the femur bone, the shoulder is another example of a ball, and socket joint, it is made up of three major bones which are, the humerus bone, which is a long bone, the clavicle bone, also called the collar bone because of its anterior location, and the scapula called the shoulder blade also located at the back posteriorly. There are cartilages around the bones that help to prevent friction because they serve as cushions (1).

It is interesting to note that the shoulder joint is also made up of two sub-joints, namely, the acromioclavicular joint made up of the clavicle, and the scapula. Second is the glenohumeral joint comprising the ball of the humerus and the external part of the scapula. Surgeons refer to the shoulder joint as the joint with the highest mobility range in the body, with the help of the rotator cuff muscle (1). The supporting group of muscle around the shoulder joint is the rotator cuff muscle, and it consists of four tendons. Tendons are tissues in the body that attach the muscles to the bones (1).

Patients often complain of shoulder pain lifting objects or the arm when there is damage to the tendons or the bones surrounding the joint, which can manifest as pain, and swelling around the joint. Injury to the shoulder joint can result from different activities such as contact sports, falls, or manual labor putting pressure on the joint.

There can also be pains radiating from other parts of the body to the shoulder joint, as a result of certain diseases, examples of such, are diseases affecting the heart, liver, and spine. Old age is another factor that predisposes one to shoulder pain, the older, the more susceptible one is to shoulder, which can be explained as a result of degeneration of soft tissues occurring with age.

Symptoms Of Shoulder Pain

Pain to the shoulder joint can present in various dimensions, depending on the etiology, that is the cause. The following are the different clinical manifestations of shoulder pain and common shoulder problems.

• – Intensity: The intensity of shoulder pain differs. Pain can become very severe after exercise or on exertion, and gets relieved after taking medications, and another pain might be very severe all through both at rest and on exertion.
• – Radiation: shoulder pain is the pain that will radiate down your arm, and can go up to the hand.
• – Stiffness: it can get stiffed at times.
• – Immobility: patient can experience difficulty in moving the shoulder, or an inability to complete the range of motion.
• – Swelling: There can be associated swelling, as a result of fluid collection in the joint.
• – Loss of function: this is often the complication of shoulder pain, at times the patient experience inability to move the arm, and hand, which can translate to an inability to use the such limb.
• – Snapping sensation (2).

The pain in the shoulder joint can get severe, and will need the attention of health personnel. The following symptoms are warning signs that it is time to see a doctor for shoulder pain:

• – Immobility or reduced motion.
• – Pain with edema along the shoulder joint.
• – A pain that does not get relieved with the use of medication.
• – A pain that wakes the patient up from sleep or causes difficulty in falling asleep.
• – The pain getting worse despite the medication.
• – Shoulder pain with sharp pain describes as being sudden by the patient (3).

Causes Of My Shoulder Pain

The following are the common causes of shoulder pain responsible for pain and stiffness in the shoulder.

1. 1. Rotator cuff injuries

The rotator cuff is the muscle group surrounding the shoulder joint, it is made up of four small muscles that come together to aid the movement of the arm, and lifting. Sometimes, shoulder pain from lifting is traceable to injuries to the rotator cuff muscles. The muscles, alongside the tendon, work together to keep the ball and socket joint in position, which is a tough task. Injuries to the rotator cuff muscles can lead to:

2. Rotator cuff tears

Just as the name implies, it is a tear to the rotator cuff muscles, which can either be a complete tear or a partial tear of the rotator cuff muscles. The tear of the muscle can happen due to a single accident such as a fall on the arm, it may also be gradual in its onset as a repeat motion on the arm, a bricklayer will repeatedly use the shovel in a single direction, and can lead to raising of the arm frequently.

Shoulder pain while sleeping, at times can be a result of a tear to the rotator cuff muscle, or/and the tendons. Shoulder pain from lifting, in some cases, can be a pointer to a tear to the rotator cuff, or pains felt while trying to pick up high objects or comb the hair. In the past, immobility, and rest is sufficient alongside ice. But, patients are now advised to use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes, physical therapy is employed (3).

3. Rotator cuff tendonitis

Rotator cuff tendonitis is said to occur when there is inflammation affecting the tendon surrounding the joint, this will cause the patient to be irritable, and if it happens in a child, such a child will cry at every slight provocation. The pain is always more at the front and side, there are times the shoulder joint can also appear stiff and difficult to move. Regular people at yoga studios often complain of features of rotator cuff tendonitis. The treatment is similar to that of a rotator cuff tear, rest, application of ice, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (3).

4. Bursitis

Inflammation affecting the bursae, that is the sac in between the joints, containing fluids that help prevent friction, and serve as a cushion, is called bursitis. A lot of time, this result from continuous use of the joint for a long period, arthritis of the joint, and the pathogenic microorganisms causing infection, which also leads to bursitis.

Studies have revealed that recently, gout has been counted as one of the commonest causes of bursitis. Subacromial bursitis is a term used when this inflammation happens at the shoulder blade area, just before the rotator cuff group of muscles. Uninterestingly, bursitis can happen alongside inflammation of the tendons around the joint. This will manifest as severe pain, pain enough to disturb or distract the patient from going on with their normal daily activities (4).

5. Shoulder dislocation

Shoulder dislocation is one of the common disorders of the shoulder joint, and causes severe pain at the shoulder joint. Shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball and socket joint of the shoulder is disrupted, that is the ball head of the humerus slips out of the socket, when this occurs, the pain is sufficient enough to disturb motion at the affected joint.

Depending on the severity of the dislocation, the shoulder can appear to be different in shape from the other normal shoulder, and sometimes, the bone can distort the skin too. Most shoulder dislocations occur as a result of injuries such as contact sports, accidents, or even falls. A previous shoulder dislocation is a risk factor for another shoulder dislocation in the future, and when this happens, orthopedics refers to it as chronic shoulder instability (4).

6. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a disorder that affects the shoulder joint leading to a degeneration of the cartilage of the joint. Several joints of the body can be affected by osteoarthritides, such as the shoulder joint, the hips, and the spine. Other joints prone to osteoarthritis are the knee joints.

Pain is the major clinical manifestation of osteoarthritis, others are edema, redness, hotness or differential warmth, and joint stiffness, and when severe, there can be loss of function in the affected arm of the body, and this is a warning sign to see a doctor.Some people may also complain of some sensation when they try to lift or move the affected joint, such sensation is referred to as a grinding sensation. Other things can also predispose one to osteoarthritis of the joint, such as a previous injury to the shoulder joint (4).

7. Shoulder impingement syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome is one of the causes of shoulder pain while sleeping, it occurs as a result of friction occurring between the soft tissues of the joint and the bones, the rubbing occurring can be as a result of any of the following:

• – Inflammation of the tendons
• – Swelling and pains in the bursae
• – Bone spurs which occur with aging
• – A malformed acromion bone, assuming a curved shape.

Shoulder impingement syndrome can result in pain felt at the outer part of the shoulder joint, shoulder pain lifting, shoulder pain worse at night, shoulder pain while sleeping, weakness of the arm, and sometimes, swelling is inevitable.

The treatment of shoulder impingement syndrome includes adequate rest of the shoulder joint, immobility, the use of anti-inflammatory medications, and exercises recommended by a physical therapist. Some doctors use corticosteroids on the affected joint to relieve the pain, and the swelling (5).

8. Frozen shoulder

A frozen shoulder often occurs as a result of the thickness of the connective tissues around the shoulder joint, which can reduce the range of motion around the joint. The pain from the frozen shoulder is enough to disturb the patient from sleeping well at night, causing shoulder pain while sleeping. The exact etiology of frozen shoulder is not known, but studies revealed that it occurs as a result of prolonged immobility a long time, however, some conditions like diabetes mellitus increase the susceptibility to frozen shoulder.

The clinical manifestation of a frozen shoulder is in stages, the first stage is the freezing of the shoulder, resulting in pain while moving the joint, causing a reduced range of motion. The second stage is the frozen stage, where the pain is reduced, while the joint gets stiffened and the patient finds it difficult to move the affected limb. The third stage is tagged thawing, it is like a convalescence stage where motion improves and the patient can move the joint better.

The pain resulting from a frozen shoulder is usually worse in the evening, and it causes shoulder pain while sleeping. The best remedy is to treat the pain using pain-relieving medications, and exercises recommended by a physical therapist, and on rare occasions, steroids and surgical interventions are used (5).

9. Shoulder pain from lifting

Weightlifters often experience shoulder pain lifting weights during their workout sessions. Studies have revealed that shoulder pain from lifting occurs as a result of three factors, weightlifters lifting heavy weights than they can carry, lifting weights without breaks in between, that is, too often, or a wrong technique of lifting. Any of the three is responsible for shoulder pain from lifting. Rotator cuff tear, tendinopathy, and impingement are the leading causes of shoulder pain from lifting.

Treatment For My Shoulder Pain

Most often than not, the cause of shoulder pain will dictate the treatment option, but there are general guidelines for the treatment of shoulder pain. These are:

• Home care: This includes the use of the following
• – Rest the affected joint
• – Apply ice to the affected area
• – Gradual return to physical activities
• – Use of over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen

• Clinic care: At the hospital or clinic, the following can be done to help the patient
• – Use of medications, such as the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• – Injection of corticosteroids to relieve associated swelling
• – Referral to a physical therapist to recommend the needed exercises
• – Surgical manipulations, for cases such as dislocation (6)

When To See a Shoulder Pain Chiropractor

Shoulder pain may be characterized by pain or stiffness in the shoulder area. It is a common cause of complaints in orthopedic clinics for shoulder injuries, especially in the elderly. Common shoulder problems that cause pain in your shoulder include rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, frozen shoulder, and tendinitis.

The pain is commonly felt when lifting the arm above your head, reaching behind your back, or when trying to lift an object. The pain can manifest as a dull ache or a crushing pain in your shoulder. It can significantly affect a person’s daily activities and quality of life. To help reduce the symptoms of shoulder pain at home, rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers can be recommended by healthcare providers for pain relief. However, if the pain is persistent or aggravating, it is advisable to seek medical attention to obtain physical exam and treatment.

A chiropractor is a primary caregiver that takes care of the musculoskeletal system. They use various manipulations to treat joints and muscular issues with exercises to stretch and strengthen. A patient can visit a shoulder pain chiropractor directly for their shoulder pain treatment because they are also primary caregivers. The doctor may refer directly to a shoulder pain chiropractor when the patient presents with conditions such as :

• – Frozen shoulder
• – Rotator cuff tears
• – Tendonitis
• – Others are Sprains at the joint. Bursitis, and unbelieving arthritis (7).

A shoulder pain chiropractor may recommend to lift your arm and move your shoulder to reduce pain in the shoulder muscles. If you feel sudden pain in the muscles and bones of your shoulder, you should see a doctor right away to get medical advice and an appropriate medical condition treatment.

References:

1. 1. https://www.healthline.com/health/shoulder-numbness
2. 2. https://www.omron-healthcare.ng/health-and-lifestyle/pain-management/body-aches-and-pains/shoulder-pain-causes-symptoms-and-treatment.html
3. 3. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/shoulder-pain-most-common-causes-and-how-to-fix-it/
4. 4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325231#impingement
5. 5. https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-when-sleeping-on-shoulder#when-to-get-care
6. 6. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/shoulder-pain
7. 7. https://www.laurelmdchiropractor.com/blog/should-you-see-a-chiropractor-for-shoulder-pain#:~:text=Yes%2C%20chiropractors%20work%20on%20shoulders,that%20make%20up%20the%20spine.