The Causes And Treatment For Joint Inflammation

Joint inflammation occurs as a result of chemicals expelled during organ or tissue destruction or naturally by the body’s immune system, and this progresses to pain and swelling and other manifestations in the joint. The appropriate treatment for joint inflammation may involve lifestyle modifications, the use of medications, and surgical procedures.

Pain and inflammation can affect just one joint or multiple joints of the body but this is dependent on the etiology. If it occurs as a result of injury, it may affect just a joint but if it is as a result of a systemic pathology such as immunosuppression, multiple joints can be affected (1). Joint inflammation medical term is referred to as arthritis.

When joint pain and inflammation occurs, vasodilation occurs. That is, the blood vessels leading to the joint get dilated to allow blood flow to the affected site. The immune system also responds by causing the release of white blood cells, and these soldiers are responsible for fighting the infection at that site.

All these responses lead to the inflammatory symptoms that occur at the injection site. Pain, hotness, redness, swelling, and loss of function are common manifestations of inflamed joints that may also lead to many types of arthritis (1).

Risk Factors For Joint Inflammation Or Arthritis

These risk factors for joint inflammation can be classified into modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. The non-modifiable risk factors are those that naturally will predispose an individual to joint inflammation and they cannot be controlled. While the non-modifiable risk factors can be controlled.

The Non-Modifiable Risk Factors Are:

• – Gender: Women are more at risk of joint inflammation and studies have shown that 60 percent of joint inflammation patients are women. Although joint inflammation resulting from gout is commonly seen among men.
• – Age: the elderly, who is adults above sixty years of age are more at risk of joint inflammation. The elderly age also predisposes them to immunosuppression which is a modifiable risk factor.
• – Family history: There are certain causes of joint inflammation that have tendencies of running in the gene such as ankylosing spondylitis, and in such cases, it means it is genetic and family history can predispose a person to it.

The Modifiable Risk Factors For Joint Inflammation Are:

• – Injuries: injuries to the joint predispose to joint inflammation and are also one of the leading causes of joint inflammation
• – Obesity: Obesity is a secondary cause of joint inflammation. It predisposes the majority to osteoarthritis which is also one of the leading causes of joint inflammation.
• – Trauma: trauma to the joints, for example from a road traffic accident is a risk factor for joint inflammation
• – Joint infections: One of the ways by which the body counters infection is by inflammation. In infection, microbial agents such as antigens are released which induces the immune system to release white blood cells to action which in turn leads to inflammation.
• – Stress: certain occupation and exercises causes the joints to be overused, for example, continuous bending of the knee or sitting at a point for a long time causing the folding of the knee (5).

Causes Of Joint Inflammation Or Osteoarthritis

The major causes of joint inflammation are joint injuries and inflammation secondary to arthritis.

• – Joint Injuries

Injury to the joint is the commonest cause of unilateral joint inflammation. Although, it can involve multiple joints if they are not far away or from systemic diseases or trauma. A punctured nail to the plantar surface of a foot can result in inflammation in multiple joints.

When an injury occurs, the body uses inflammatory processes to divert the white blood cells, macrophages, and other immune system soldiers to the site of injury to either prevent or fight infection and accelerate the process of wound healing.

However, this doesn’t happen without inflammatory signs manifesting at the injured site.

There can be swelling, pains whose severity is dependent on the individual, redness, and at times loss of function leading to the inability to utilize the affected site. But in such a situation where functioning is already affected, such a person should present to the hospital for further treatment or management (1).

• – Inflammatory Arthritis.

These categories of arthritis are referred to as inflammatory arthritis. Joint inflammation medical term is arthritis, but all joint inflammations are not from arthritis. Hence, inflammatory arthritis causes joint inflammation.

Arthritis affects the joints and, in this case, is not acute because they gradually graduate to chronic forms, and this is the joint inflammation that affects more than one joint because it can progress to other joints too.

Most common examples of inflammatory arthritis are Rheumatoid arthritis and Systemic Lupus. Others are osteoarthritis and systemic sclerosis.

• – Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is a generic form of inflammatory arthritis and it is autoimmune. That is, it is a result of the immune system affecting the normal body tissues. And this includes the joints which results in joint inflammation and other organ pathologies. Rheumatoid arthritis affects mostly small joints.

The joint inflammation fingers often develop subcutaneous nodules and skin changes. It destroys both cartilages and bones after affecting the synovium which majorly harbors the fluid that helps in lubrication of the joints. Although the etiology is still idiopathic, that is, it is unknown, some biomarkers help in making the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (6).

• – Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects different systems of the body including the musculoskeletal system. Lupus results in inflammation of the joints and other organs. Joint inflammation from lupus is a chronic inflammation that can result in damage to such joints (4).

• – Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis also called scleroderma, is an autoimmune disorder, which causes both inflammation and joint stiffness, this results in pain and edema of the affected joints as well as skin thickness around the affected joints (4).

• – Osteoarthritis

This is the most common type of arthritis and joint pain, also leading to chronic joint degeneration (2). It mostly occurs from stress and friction of the affected joints which cause inflammation and breakdown of the joint cartilage.

This further leads to inflammation of the affected joint and manifested with swelling, pain, and sometimes loss of function when severe (3). Studies have shown that majority of the inflammatory arthritis is autoimmune that result when the body’s immune system attacks the normal body tissue.

The role of infection in joint inflammation cannot be underestimated, Joint inflammation medical term when it occurs as a result of infection is known as septic arthritis. Most of the time, this can occur as a result of septicemia when infection from other areas spread to the affected joint. This inflammation often resolves with the use of antibiotics but can get severe with poor or no treatment (1).

Clinical Manifestations Of Joint Inflammation Or Symptoms Of Arthritis

The following are the symptoms of joint inflammation:

• – Edema of the affected joint (swelling)
• – Pain in the affected joint
• – Warmth and redness of the joint
• – Others are stiffness and loss of function, inability to bear weight, especially in the lower extremities (2).

Joint inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis often manifests with some or all of the following:

• – Fever which is usually a low fever
• – Tiredness
• – Smaller joints are more affected compared to big joints
• – Joint stiffness especially in the morning
• – Involvement of the heart
• – Involvement of more than one joint
• – High white blood cell count but low red cell count (6).

Diagnosis Of Joint Inflammation Or Inflammatory Arthritis

The diagnosis of joint inflammation starts from history taking. An adequate history of the affected joint, and the possible causes and complications confer so far.

A thorough examination is also required to assess the joint movements and rule out the stiffness of the affected joint, check for pains which is manifest as tenderness on touching, and to check if there is swelling of affected joints. Joint inflammation fingers are often swollen especially from rheumatoid arthritis (3).

Investigations are also required in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis such as:

A blood test to check for white and red blood cells level, and to detect rheumatoid factors. An X-ray can also be done to detect any deformities in the bone, especially if bone inflammation is chronic already. And to check for any fractures as well.

CT and MRI may also be required if there is any suspected soft tissue injury or destruction (3).

What Is The Treatment For Joint Inflammation?

The appropriate treatment for joint inflammation will be dependent on the etiology of the inflammation. Depending on the cause, some may require conservative treatment while others will require lifestyle modifications, the use of medications, and surgical procedures (1).

Medications For Joint Inflammation

There are several drugs available for joint inflammation to ease the pain and associated swelling. Some of these drugs as treatment options are:

1. 1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for pain relief and suppress the edema
2. 2. Corticosteroids such as prednisolone, and parenteral corticosteroids can also be used depending on the severity of the joint inflammation.
3. 3. Non-specific drugs, this is because these drugs are not specific to inflammatory conditions alone. They can also be utilized in the treatment of other conditions. Such as cancers, gastric diseases, and lots more. Examples of such drugs are strong pain relievers like narcotics, sedatives when pain is preventing patients from sleeping, and chemotherapy agents.

The duration and dosage will vary to avoid side effects from the drugs and close monitoring of patients on these drugs are also very important (2).

Physical Therapy

The importance of physical therapy in the management of joint inflammation cannot be underestimated. The patient should be referred to the physiotherapy team as early as possible. This will help to prevent and treat complications such as stiffness and loss of functions and to help the patient adjust to living and carry out daily activities (3).

Lifestyle Modifications

1. 1. Exercise

The physical therapist will also recommend the appropriate exercise to the patient to help in weight loss especially if the patient is obese and to also keep fit to avoid complications that can arise from the inflammation (6).

2. 2. Diet management

Healthy eating is an important aspect of health and also very important for weight loss and maintaining an appropriate weight. In inflammation, foods rich in antioxidants are the best as they help to slow down inflammatory processes.

Such foods are fish, fruits, and vegetables. Others are nuts and certain herbs.

Foods that should be avoided in treatment for joint inflammation are fries, excessive meat, and fries (6).

Surgery

Surgery is usually recommended in joint inflammation after the medical and conservative treatment fails and this is usually in the cases of inflammatory arthritis. Sometimes, the surgeries include joint replacement if due to chronic joint disease, or fusion in severe cases (3).

Home Remedies In Treatment For Joint Inflammation

Studies have shown that several home remedies can help in the management of joint inflammation. Examples of such are:

• – RICE Principle: This is an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Just as the acronym implies, the patient needs to rest the affected joint or limbs, apply ice for about twenty to thirty minutes which will help to reduce the inflammation, and wrap around the joint to help relieve the inflammation and elevation of the affected limbs.
• – Massage: massage should not be done without the knowledge of the healthcare provider, but in cases where it has been indicated, it has shown to be effective in relieving inflammation.
• – Heat Application: the type of inflammation and the cause of the inflammation will determine if heat can be used. It is better to wait a while before applying heat.
• – Exercise: exercise at home can help reduce inflammation, reduce swelling and improve function. But it is best to do an exercise based on guidance from the physical therapist because different injuries require different strengths of exercise (1).

When To Call The Doctor For Joint Inflammatory Disease

The doctor should be contacted in the presence of one or some of the following:

• – Persistent and severe pain for days
• – Failure of medications
• – Failure of home remedies
• – Loss of function in the affected joint limb
• – The onset of new symptoms progressively
• – Pain is more in the morning after waking

In the presence of one or some of the above, the doctor needs to be contacted for further investigations and management (1).

Prevention Of Inflammatory Joint Disease

The following helps to reduce the risks of joint inflammation:

• – Healthy eating
• – Regular and consistent exercise
• – Avoid smoking or taking alcohol
• – Maintain a good body weight (2).

References:

1. 1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/joint-inflammation
2. 2. https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/arthritis-inflammation
3. 3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12061-arthritis
4. 4. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/arthritis#:~:text=Key+points+about+arthritis&text=Symptoms+may+include+pain%2C+stiffness,reduction%2C+exercise%2C+and+surgery.
5. 5. https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-risk-factors
6. 6. https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis#diagnosis

Gout Facts

Gout is a condition that results from high levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a byproduct of the body’s breakdown of proteins. One of the gout facts is that it affects both men and women and can often be hereditary. Gout treatment usually involves lowering uric acid levels with drugs or surgery.

What is Gout?

Because of uric acid buildup in the blood, gout is an arthritic condition. Uric acid is a naturally occurring substance that can form when the body breaks down muscle tissue or the liver processes fats and proteins. Elevated uric acid levels can cause inflammation and damage the joints, kidneys, and other organs.

Gout can be hereditary, meaning you are more likely to develop it if your parents or siblings have it. It can also be caused by high levels of alcohol consumption, obesity, or a lack of exercise.

Controlling your uric acid level by dietary and lifestyle modifications is the best method to prevent gout. Excessive intake of purine foods (such as organ meats, seafood, and some nuts) or alcohol can increase uric acid levels. Consuming protein and fiber-rich foods may also help lower uric acid levels.

Causes of Gout

Uric acid crystallization is the root cause of gout. In the blood. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including:

• – Excessive drinking
• – High blood pressure
• – Obesity
• – Kidney disease
• – A high intake of purines, such as seafood and animal products
• – Medications that cause renal stones or cysts in the kidney
• – A family history of gout

Symptoms of Gout

Gout is an excruciatingly painful form of arthritis that most commonly affects the feet, ankles, and knees. The disease is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood.

Uric acid is a waste product produced when the body breaks down food. It can accumulate in the joints if not flushed out regularly.

The symptoms of gout include intense pain, redness, and swelling. In some cases, gout can lead to permanent damage to the joints.

Gout has no cure, but some treatments can alleviate the symptoms. Treatment typically involves reducing uric acid in the blood, using medications to relieve pain, and correcting any underlying health conditions causing the uric acid level to rise.

Gout Facts: So What Gout Looks Like?

Gout is arthritis caused by uric acid crystals in the joint spaces. The crystals cause inflammation and pain, which may be noticeable when you walk or stand. In advanced cases, gout can lead to renal failure and death.

There’s not much known about the source of gout, but it is thought to be related to high uric acid levels in the blood. The most common sources of uric acid are high-purine foods (such as bacon, sausage, ham, and seafood) and alcohol. Other variables that may enhance your gout risk include obesity, viral infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus), and certain medical conditions (such as kidney disease or lupus).

The good news is that there are treatments available for gout. These include: reducing your intake of high-purine foods and drinks; taking medication to lower your uric acid levels; using orthopedic shoes or devices to help relieve pressure on the joints; and undergoing surgery if the condition is severe enough.

Gout Risk Factors

Gout is a disorder that is characterized by uric acid buildup in the joints. The most common places for gout to develop are the big toe, first metatarsal joint, second metatarsal joint, and fifth metatarsal joint.

There are many gout risk factors, including:

1. 1. Being overweight or obese
2. 2. Having a family history of gout or any arthritis
3. 3. Smoking
4. 4. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
5. 5. Taking certain medications (such as NSAIDs)- Being over the age of 40
6. 6. Having certain genetic markers that make you more likely to develop gout

Gout and Arthritis

Gout is arthritis caused by too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product made when the body breaks down food. Gout is most frequent in adult men over the age of 50 years. The reason is unknown. However, genetics and metabolism may be involved. Gout and arthritis symptoms include joint pain and tenderness, especially in the big toe, ankle, and knee. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, and a red, swollen, and inflamed joint.

There is no cure for gout, but therapy focuses on symptom relief. Treatment options include medication, lifestyle changes (such as limiting alcohol intake), and surgery (such as a total knee replacement).

Gout Prevention

If you have gout, you can take steps to prevent it from happening again. Here are some tips to help you avoid gout:

1. 1. Avoid high-sodium foods and drinks. These can increase your blood pressure and lead to gout. Try to replace high-sodium items with low-sodium alternatives, such as canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and bouillon cubes.
2. 2. Drink plenty of fluids. When thirsty, drink water, unsweetened juices, or 16 ounces of low-fat milk daily. If you can’t drink enough fluids, speak with your doctor about prescribed hydration therapy.
3. 3. Keep your weight under control. Uric acid crystallization is the root cause of gout. Make sure to get enough exercise and avoid being overweight. Excessive weight gain may also cause joint inflammation.
4. 4. Limit your intake of alcohol. Alcohol can increase the risk of gout by raising your blood pressure and causing inflammation in the joints. If you choose to partake in the activity of drinking alcohol, you should make it a priority to limit your consumption to no more than one or two drinks per day at the most.

How to Treat Gout

Gout is a common problem that can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes.

Medications used to treat gout include NSAIDs, Aleve, and ibuprofen. NSAIDs are the most effective treatment, but they may also cause side effects such as stomach pain, tooth erosion, and heart problems. Aleve and ibuprofen are less likely to cause side effects, but they don’t work as well as NSAIDs. Minimize your alcohol use, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking, as lifestyle modifications can help reduce your risk of gout.

Gout is a condition that manifests itself in the form of excruciating pain and swelling in the joints. This ailment is brought on by abnormally high uric acid concentrations in the blood.

There are many treatments for gout, but the most common is allopurinol medication. Allopurinol can help to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood. It also helps to relieve the pain and swelling associated with gout.

If you are experiencing gout symptoms, you must talk to your doctor about a treatment plan. You may also be able to self-treat with allopurinol if you can take it regularly.

Gout Leg

Gout leg is arthritis that affects the joints in your feet, ankles, and knees. The pain typically worsens after meals and with physical activity. There isn’t a specific cause for gout, but it can be caused by various factors, including genetics and diet. Gout is typically treated with medication and rest. Surgery may be necessary to remove the affected joint if the condition doesn’t improve with treatment.

Gout Blood Test

The agonizing pain that can be caused by gout, a kind of arthritis that manifests itself in the joints, can be caused by gout. It is brought on by the blood’s abnormally high amounts of uric acid. A gout blood test can help determine whether or not you have the ailment and whether or not you require therapy.

A gout blood test includes a uric acid level and other tests to determine the cause of the high uric acid levels. The test may also measure your creatinine level, a waste product produced when the body breaks down muscle tissue.

The results of a gout blood test may be used to:

• – Identify whether you have gout.
• – Determine the extent of your gouty arthritis
• – Help you decide whether you need treatment.
• – To find relief from the pain and inflammation that gout creates, a person who suffers from the ailment may need to take medication or seek medical assistance.

Gout and Coffee

Interestingly, gout and coffee seem to have a correlation. Gout is arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Coffee has decreased uric acid levels, which may help prevent gout flares. Coffee also provides various health benefits, such as lowering anxiety and boosting cognitive function. If you are experiencing gout symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about whether coffee may be a helpful way to manage your condition.

Gout NSAID

Gout is a type of arthritis that most commonly affects the feet and ankles. Gout is caused when uric acid builds up in the blood over time and can lead to severe pain and inflammation. There are several different types of gout, but all share some common features.

Gout is most common in adults between 50 and 70 but can also occur at any age. The precise etiology is unknown, although it appears to be a combination of hereditary and environmental factors (such as obesity, high blood pressure, and a high-salt diet).

Gout has no solution. However, treatments can help ease symptoms. Medications such as Gout NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), colchicine (a medicine used to treat gout), or allopurinol (an anti-inflammatory drug) may help reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood. In some cases, corticosteroids may also be effective. Surgery may be required in extreme circumstances where other treatments have failed.

There are several steps you can take to prevent gout: keep your weight under control, maintain a healthy diet, avoid smoking,

Gout and Tomatoes

Gout is a joint disease caused by excessive uric acid levels in the blood. Uric acid is a natural product of the body’s breakdown of purines. Uric acid crystals form in the joint spaces of those who have gout, causing discomfort and swelling.

Gout and tomatoes share an inverse relationship. Tomatoes are a common source of uric acid. The vegetables contain high levels of purines, which can form uric acid when the body breaks them down. When people with gout eat tomatoes, their levels of uric acid in their blood rise, developing gout symptoms. Eating tomatoes may increase your risk for gout, but it doesn’t cause the disease.

People with gout should avoid foods with high levels of purines, such as meats, fish, shellfish, legumes, and nuts. They should also resist consuming alcohol and eating a lot of tomato products. If you have gout, your doctor may recommend taking supplements that contain minerals or vitamins that help to break down the uric acid.

Gout and Uric Acid

Gout is an inflammation of the joints caused by excess uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a natural product found in the body and is important for healthy joint function. Too much uric acid can lead to gout, a condition that can be painful and debilitating.

You can do many things to reduce your risk of gout and uric acid, including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. If you experience joint pain or swelling, see your doctor for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you experience joint pain or swelling caused by gout, talk to your doctor about your options for treatment.

What do you have to understand about shoulder pain?

There are several potential causes of shoulder pain, including arthritis, rotator cuff tears, and impingement syndrome. This article will discuss how the cause of the pain can be identified and treated. However, in some cases, the cause of the pain is unknown or difficult to treat. In these cases, treatment may involve rest, exercise, and medications.

The Causes of Shoulder Pain

There are many possible causes of shoulder pain, but the most common sources of shoulder pain are overuse or abuse, such as playing football, tennis, or basketball. Other causes of shoulder pain can include arthritis, rotator cuff tears, and labral tears.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it is important to see a doctor to rule out a more serious condition. In many cases, simply resting and applying ice will help relieve the pain. If the pain doesn’t go away after treatment, your doctor may send you to a physical therapist who can help you increase your shoulder’s range of motion and reduce swelling.

If you have shoulder pain that is not resolved by rest and ice, you may need to see a specialist. Many times, the cause of shoulder pain can be treated with physical therapy and medication. If the cause of your shoulder pain is unknown, your doctor may refer you to a shoulder surgeon for further evaluation.

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain

Common symptoms of shoulder pain include:

• – Pain when raising the arm above the shoulder
• – Pain when rotating the arm
• – Pain when moving the arm side to side
• – Feeling of instability or stiffness in the shoulder area

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. Your doctor may recommend exercises to help reduce pain, or they may refer you to a specialist who can help diagnose and treat your shoulder pain.

Types of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common problem and can be caused by many different things. Here are the three most common types of shoulder pain:

• – Rotator cuff pain
• – Biceps tendinitis
• – Shoulder impingement syndrome.

Pain in the rotator cuff is primarily brought on by the muscles and tendons that make up the rotator cuff. These muscles prevent the shoulder joint from sliding around in its socket, hence preventing dislocation (the ball and socket joint). Shoulder pain may develop if the muscles that make up the rotator cuff are damaged or allowed to deteriorate to the point where they are too weak. Pain in the rotator cuff can frequently be alleviated by resting the affected shoulder, using ice, and taking ibuprofen. If the condition is serious, you might need to have surgery.

Inflammation of one or more of the biceps tendon muscles is the hallmark symptom of the medical illness known as biceps tendinitis. The onset of this kind of pain is typically slow and steady, and it tends to worsen over time. Ibuprofen, ice, and rest are the components of the treatment plan. If the condition is serious, you might need cortisone injections or surgery to treat it.

Shoulder impingement syndrome is a disorder that occurs when the upper arm bone (the humerus) scrapes against the lower arm bone (the radius) inside the shoulder joint. This can cause pain and discomfort in the shoulder. This may result in discomfort as well as a restricted range of motion. Ibuprofen, ice, and rest are the components of the treatment plan. If the condition is serious, you might need to have surgery.

Shoulder Pain Chiropractor

Do you find that moving your shoulder causes you a lot of pain? If this is the case, it’s possible that you’re dealing with a more serious issue that needs to be addressed by a chiropractor. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals that specialize in the rehabilitation and treatment of patients suffering from shoulder, neck, and back pain.

Here are some general tips on how to get the most out of chiropractic care for your shoulder:

1. 1. If you have substantial shoulder pain that has not improved after the use of conservative treatments such as rest and ice, you should schedule an appointment with a chiropractor. Chiropractors are able to increase joint function while also relieving pain and stiffness in their patients.
2. 2. Stay away from activities that make your shoulder pain worse, such as jobs that require you to reach overhead or strenuous exercise routines. These actions can result in additional damage and irritation to the body.
3. 3. To keep your health in the best possible condition and to alleviate shoulder pain, have frequent chiropractic adjustments. Chiropractors are also able to assist in reducing the risk of future injuries happening.

Do not be reluctant to make an appointment with a chiropractor if you are experiencing shoulder pain. Chiropractic treatment has the potential to not only reduce symptoms of pain and stiffness but also aid in the prevention of further injuries.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Pain

Most people have felt shoulder pain. It frequently comes and goes. But what if your shoulder pain has persisted for more than two or three weeks? The moment has come to schedule a visit with your chiropractor.

When you have any form of musculoskeletal discomfort or injury, chiropractic treatment is a wise decision. It serves as an alternative to both medication and surgery. Chiropractors are noted for their expertise in treating back and spine conditions, particularly neck and back discomfort. Will they be able to offer effective treatment for shoulder pain, though? Yes, but how?

In general, the shoulder joint is thought to be the most flexible in the human body; it is encircled by muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Shoulder discomfort results from irritated muscles in the shoulder’s supporting muscles.

Shoulder Pain While Sleeping

The shoulder is a ball and socket joint. The shoulder blade (scapula) attaches to the upper arm bone (humerus). The shoulder blade can rotate around the axis of the humerus. The shoulder joint lets the arm reach out (abduction), turn (rotation), and bend (flexion).

When the shoulder joint is injured, one or more of these movements may be impaired. This can lead to pain in the neck, arm, and hand. Injuries to the rotator cuff muscles can also lead to pain in the shoulder.

There are many possible causes of shoulder pain while sleeping. The most common cause is overuse syndrome, which is when the shoulder becomes overloaded with repeated use. Other causes include rotator cuff tears, scapular wing syndrome, and impingement syndrome.

If you are experiencing pain in your shoulder while sleeping, it is important to consult with a doctor. They might be able to figure out what’s causing your pain and suggest the best way to treat it.

Shoulder pain while sleeping – how can you avoid this?

There are a variety of approaches you can take to cut down on the amount of time you spend sleeping on your injured shoulder, including the following:

• – When you go to sleep, you lie on your back. This is the simplest technique to reduce the amount of weight you are carrying. Make use of pillows to achieve a comfortable position for your neck. Resting in an inclined position as you sleep will prevent you from rolling onto your side (such as a reclining chair, raising the head of the bed, or using pillows).
• – When you sleep, you should use certain types of side pillows. When sleeping on your side, you can alleviate the strain that is directly applied to your shoulders by using pillows that are easily obtainable in retail outlets.
• – When you’re ready to sleep, roll onto your stomach. In addition to that, this may alleviate some of the strain that is being placed on your shoulders.
• – You should sleep on the shoulder that isn’t giving you any pain. If you can help it, try to sleep on the shoulder that isn’t hurting as much as possible.
• – If you sleep with your arm or elbow overhead or tucked under a pillow, you should change your sleeping position. Because of the nature of these positions, the shoulder may be subjected to pressure for protracted periods of time.

Shoulder Pain Lifting

There are a few things that you may do to lessen the possibility of experiencing shoulder pain. When lifting weights, the first thing you should do is double-check that you are doing so with the proper form. If you have poor form, you will place more pressure on your shoulders, which will increase the likelihood that you will suffer from shoulder pain.

If you already have shoulder pain, another thing you can do is make an effort to avoid situations in which you have to lift heavy objects. Instead, you should try to concentrate on things that are lighter and easier for you to move. Last but not least, make it a point to exercise frequently. This will make you more fit in general and less likely to have shoulder pain in the future.

Treatment for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. Treatment for shoulder pain typically involves addressing the underlying cause, which may include treating the biomechanics of the shoulder, relieving pain with medication or surgery, and modifying lifestyle habits.

Treatment for shoulder pain typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include treating the biomechanics of the shoulder, relieving pain with medication or surgery, and modifying lifestyle habits.

Treatment for shoulder pain may include:

• – Treating the biomechanics of the shoulder: This may involve modifying exercises or using a sling to help support the shoulder.
• – Taking medication: Some people find relief from pain with medication, such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), ibuprofen, or acetaminophen.
• – Surgery: Surgery may be necessary if the pain is severe and not relieved by medications or other treatments. Surgery options include arthroscopic surgery (a procedure that uses a small tool to remove debris or fluid from the joint) and open surgery (a surgery that involves opening up the joint).
• – Modifying lifestyle habits: Some common lifestyle habits that can contribute to shoulder pain include smoking, obesity, and poor posture.

Prevention of Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is a complicated joint that is prone to causing pain in some people. Shoulder pain can be avoided in a variety of methods, some of the most fundamental of which are as follows:

1. 1. Maintain a constant motion in your shoulders. Perform regular shoulder rotations and raise your arm as high as you can, keeping in mind that the goal is to have the weight distributed uniformly across the shoulder. Your shoulder muscles will remain strong and flexible thanks to this exercise.
2. 2. When you work out, you should wear sleeves. Wear sleeves when lifting weights to protect your skin from getting scraped or cut. Your arms will not be subjected to the strain that is often associated with heavy lifting thanks to this.
3. 3. Get lots of sleep. A good night’s sleep helps reduce tension and inflammation in the body, both of which can cause pain in the joints if they are not addressed.
4. 4. Reduce the amount of alcohol you consume. Drinking alcohol can irritate the joints and create discomfort in certain areas.
5. 5. Consume food that is good for you. If you consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and grains that are unprocessed, you may reduce the risk of developing joint pain.
6. 6. Take vitamins. A number of dietary supplements, such as glucosamine sulfate, have been shown to be effective in reducing joint discomfort and inflammation.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, there are a few things you can do to try and relieve it. First, see your doctor to rule out any physical causes of the pain. If your doctor finds no physical cause for the pain, they may refer you to an orthopedic specialist or physiatrist who specializes in treating shoulder pain. Additionally, some people find relief from their shoulder pain by using over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If these OTC medications don’t work or if they only partially relieve the pain, then consider seeking prescription medication from a doctor.

How to Ease Knee Stiffness and Pain

The complaint of knee stiffness is commoner among the elderly and inevitably even among the active individuals, especially after sixty years of age and this can be a result of imbalances occurring in the muscle and disuse in the elderly.

Although there are numerous causes of knee stiffness arthritis and injuries to the knee joint happens to be the leading causes of knee stiffness today (1). This article will be discussing the various causes of knee stiffness and their effective management regimens.

What Are The Causes Of Knee Stiffness And Pain?

Knee stiffness is almost always secondary to an underlying condition and most times it is a result of injury to the joint. Below are the causes of knee stiffness:

1. 1. Trauma

Most of the stiffness accompanying trauma to the knee pain does not surface immediately which is because the pain from the trauma is very severe at the time, and on some rare occasions, stiffness manifests almost immediately after the trauma.

The traumatic events that lead to knee injuries are fracture and sprain

In fracture, patella fracture especially in adults is the most common cause of knee stiffness which most times are due to falls. The knee is stiff and swollen in most cases where the fracture is the cause of the stiffness

A sprain occurs when there is a twisting of one or all of the knee ligaments. This can result from any activities that will cause a forceful impact on the joint especially sports injuries like track events, the knees sore from running and subsequently, stiffness evolves. Knee stiffness and pain is the most common clinical manifestation in this case (3).

2. 2. Fibrosis

The type of fibrosis common around the joint is referred to as arthrofibrosis, which occurs as a result of scar tissues forming around the joint from previous injuries or surgeries to the knee. The common manifestations are knee stiffness and pain, knee swelling and differential warmth at the affected knee joint, and affected posture (1).

3. 3. Meniscal injury

The meniscal injury occurs from tears to the cartilages that are situated between bones. Commonly they are seen in sports injuries where the athlete had to stop suddenly or make a sudden turn.

Osteoarthritis is also one of the commonest causes of meniscus injury making the knee sore inside. The meniscal injury will result in joint pain, edema, and difficulty in moving the knee joint. This causes the knee to stiff (2).

4. 4. Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs due to the immune system having an attack on the normal body system. In most cases, the bilateral knee joints are affected. It manifests with synovial membrane swelling. Consequently, this swelling and pain from the synovial membrane result in knee stiffness (1).

5. 5. Inflammation of the bursae

Inflammation of the bursae is medically referred to as bursitis. The bursae contain a fluid that lubricates the bones of the joints to prevent friction between the bones, and there are more than one bursae in one joint.

When the knee joint is being overused maybe from continuous exercise, bursitis can occur and this will cause the knee to be stiff, and in such cases, the knee is stiff after sitting for a long period (3).

6. 6. Post-surgical stiffness

Oftentimes, knee stiffness also occurs after surgical procedures are done on the knee and this is a similar case to arthrofibrosis.

Common surgical procedures complicated by knee stiffness are Repair of injuries to the tendon, excisional surgeries, partial or total knee replacement surgeries, and repair of ligament injuries (4).

7. 7. Injuries involving the ligaments

Ligamentous injuries often cause the patient to experience severe pain. The ligaments of a joint connect the bones and these are the femur, the tibia, and the fibula. They help to ensure the stability of the knee joint.

Commonly in sports injuries, injuries to the ligaments can affect any of the three ligaments in the knee, that is, the anterior, posterior, and medial cruciate ligaments.

Road traffic accidents from high forces can also result in ligamentous injuries.

Patients presenting with injuries to the ligaments often present with the following feature:

• – Pain in the knee that is always very severe
• – The pain is present while moving
• – Noise in the knee sounding like crepitus
• – Instability or difficulty in movement
• – Edema of the knee joint
• – The knee is sore on inside causing stiffness (2).

8. 8. Osteochondritis dissecans

This is a joint disease characterized by inadequate blood flow beneath the cartilage located at the end of a bone. Insufficient blood flow causes ischemia of that particular layer of bone which eventually will lead to the death of the bone and destruction of the cartilage as well.

The cause of this is mainly idiopathic but it has been associated with forcing infants to move their immature bones right before maturity causing insufficient blood flow. It commonly affects the knee joints, although any other joints of the body can also be affected. After the initial swelling, knee stiffness and pain are other common manifestations of osteochondritis (3).

9. 9. Systemic lupus erythematosus

This is an autoimmune disease and just like rheumatoid arthritis, it causes the immune system to fight against the normal body system as if it is attacking a microorganism or a disease agent. Lupus manifests in different forms when different organs of the body are affected, its manifestation will be dependent on the affected body system or organs.

Some of its clinical manifestations are Lupus rash which normally takes the pattern of a butterfly, weakness, photosensitivity, migratory polyarthritis, pains in the chest, discoloration of the toes and the fingers when cold, slow mentation, and lots more. As the joint pains continue, it gets complicated by stiffness. Any joint of the body can be affected, including the knee joints (3).

10. 10. Fractures

Fracture to the knee joint occurs when there is a discontinuity in any one of the bony components of the knee joint and this can cause immobility and stiffness of the knee. And after the repair of the fracture or its healing, the stiffness remains for a while and some normally require physical therapy to fix them.

Therefore, patients recovering from knee fractures are always advised to be diligent with their physiotherapy appointments o help resolve the stiffness and accompanying swelling too (5).

Symptoms Of Knee Stiffness And Pain

Irrespective of the cause of the knee stiffness, the patient always has other symptoms with the stiffness. These are:

• – Swelling
• – Pain
• – Differential warmth
• – Presence of fluid in the joint
• – Immobility
• – Crepitus sounds
• – Deformity
• – Inability to bear weight

Knee problems may eventually lead to various types of arthritis. It is advisable to see a doctor in case of medical condition with the knee. Symptoms can go worse over time and there is to see a specialist. When the patient experience any of the following, it is time to see the doctor:

• – Difficulty in bearing weight on the affected limb
• – Other signs of inflammation like fever and redness
• – A very severe pain
• – Deformity of the affected leg
• – Immobility

However, the patient should visit the doctor as soon as there is any injury involving the knee joint.

Diagnosis Of Knee Stiffness And Pain

To make a definitive diagnosis of knee stiffness your body will ask certain questions from you to have a thorough history of what happened after which some investigations will be done.

However, knee stiffness is always a primary diagnosis secondary to something. It doesn’t just occur on its own. Here are some of the investigations to be done to diagnose the causes of the knee stiffness:

1. 1. Blood tests: Blood tests are usually done to detect the blood level and see inflammatory changes in the blood. Most times, a blood test is done to rule out arthritis.
2. 2. X-Rays: X-rays to detect a possible fracture or identify certain changes in the joints that may also be pointing toward arthritis
3. 3. MRI scan: This is usually done to identify damages to the soft tissues surrounding the knee joint and this is usually the ligaments and the tendon (4).

Treatment Of Knee Stiffness And Pain

The treatment of knee stiffness is always dependent on the cause of the stiffness. Treatment can either be long-term or short term and the good news is that there are multiple home remedies available for patients with knee stiffness for treatment.

Knee stiffness often leads to pain and inflammation in the knee cartilage. Eventual treatment may involve joint replacement. Knee pain is a common complaint in osteoarthritis of the knee. If you begin to experience knee pain, you may want to try below home remedies first before seeking medical treatment.

Home Care Methods

The majority of the things required or available for the patient to be done at home are basely lifestyle modifications that will largely help to improve the underlying condition of the patient which consequently, will treat the stiffness.

These are:

• 1. Following the RICE principle: RICE is an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
• – Rest: This involves gentle positioning of the leg or just soft or mild moving activities but with little or no stress on the affected limb. Also, the use of crutches is advised to minimize weight on the leg.
• – Ice: The use of ice is to minimize swellings to the knee joint. Ice packs can be used or put the leg into ice water and may help with the swelling.
• – Compression: Most times, compression serves dual purposes, to prevent excessive movement of the limb and to also relieve the swelling. There are compression bandages or braces available for this purpose.
• – Elevation: This has to do with raising the knee joint to reduce the downward flow of fluid thereby reducing edema of the affected knee joint. Elevation can be done by raising the lower edge of the bed or simply supporting the knee with a soft pillow for improvisation (3).

2. 2. Avoid sitting up in one place for a long time: The knee is stiff after sitting the majority of the time in those with a sedentary lifestyle at work or home. Mild to moderate moving around for like thirty minutes can be done at intervals in a situation where an individual is always confined to a place.

The use of exercises like yoga has also proven to be of help in such patients.

3. 3. Cold and warm compresses: No individual should do this except by being trained by the physiotherapist to carry out such. But, this method has also been proven to help with knee stiffness at home.
4. 4. Weight loss: Weight loss is one of the remedies for osteoarthritis. This will however help to relieve knee stiffness in such patients (2).

The Use Of Medications

This management largely involves the use of parenteral steroids and drugs.

1. 1. Pain relievers: The type of pain relievers recommend here are the topical ones which involve direct application over the skin of the affected knee joint. It makes side effects minimal and it can be used many times in a day and when required too.
2. 2. Steroids: Recommended steroids for knee stiffness secondary to arthritis is the triamcinolone acetonide based on its effective action from studies and it has also been approved by FDA. It is a slow-release steroid that works for up to three months when injected into the knee. It has lesser side effects like steroid-induced diabetes and cushion syndrome when compared to other steroidal uses (2)

Surgical Methods

Knee replacement surgery and osteotomy are the two surgical procedures commonly performed on account of knee stiffness not resolving

In younger patients, an osteotomy is largely done to avoid rushing in for a knee replacement and this has to do with reforming and cutting off parts of the bone to solve misalignment problems and also to relieve pain.

Knee replacement is either total or partial knee replacement. A total knee replacement is done if the entire knee is damaged with no other remedy. While a partial knee replacement is opted for when it involves only a part of the knee (2).

Other Treatment For Knee Modalities Are:

1. 1. The use of supplements: There are numerous supplements available today both online and in pharmacies claiming to work well for knee stiffness. But the popularly approved ones are the use of glucosamine and omega -3. Chondroitin has also proven to be effective as well (5).
2. 
3. 2. Use of assisted devices: If the knee stiffness is large for arthritis, the physiotherapist will help recommend the use of assisted devices to help aid mobility (2).
6. Knee stiffness is large as a result of injury, activity, or secondary to disease. To prevent this, one should avoid a sedentary lifestyle and exercise the legs as often as possible. There are cases where knee stiffness can occur on its own without an underlying disease or inactivity and there are situations where the knees are stiff after sitting. Such cases usually resolve easily following the RICE principle discussed above (4).

References:

1. 1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327499
2. 2. https://www.healthline.com/health/causes-of-severe-knee-pain-leading-to-knee-replacement#ligament-injuries
3. 3. https://www.buoyhealth.com/learn/knee-stiffness#treatment-and-relief
4. 4. https://www.verywellhealth.com/stiff-knee-after-sitting-5094756
5. 5. https://www.knee-pain-explained.com/stiff-knee.html

Joints Pain In Legs: Consequences, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Joint pain in legs can be a major concern for individuals as it can severely impact their daily activities and quality of life. Various factors can contribute to joint pain, with arthritis and osteoarthritis being the most common causes. Arthritis is a medical disorder characterized by inflammation within the joints, leading to chronic joint pain.

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative joint disease that results from wear and tear on the joints over time, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Treatment options for joint pain in legs vary depending on the cause, with options ranging from anti-inflammatory medications to physical therapy. It is essential to seek medical attention to obtain an accurate diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan.

Osteoarthritis

Millions of people worldwide suffer from osteoarthritis, the most prevalent kind of arthritis. It happens as a result of deterioration of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones throughout time. Despite the fact that osteoarthritis can harm any joint, it most frequently affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis’ primary symptoms are pain and, occasionally, stiffness in the afflicted joints. When you move the joint or towards the end of the day, the pain is typically worse. Your joints could feel stiff, but if you start moving, this normally passes quite quickly. There may be random variations in symptoms. Alternatively, you might discover that your symptoms change based on what you’re doing.

The afflicted joint may occasionally swell. The swelling may be

The swelling may be either hard and knobbly, especially in the finger joints, brought on by the development of extra bone; or soft, brought on by the thickening of the joint lining and the accumulation of excess fluid within the joint capsule.

As you move the joint, it might not move as easily or as far as usual and might make grinding or crackling noises. We refer to this as “crepitus.”

Muscles near the joint may appear withered or lanky at times. Because your muscles have deteriorated or because the joint structure has grown less stable, the joint may occasionally give way.

Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage and other tissues in the joint degenerate or undergo structural change. Simple joint wear and tear is not the reason for this. Instead, the disintegration might be caused by changes in the tissue, which usually happen slowly over time.

Joints Pain in Legs

Injury to any of the tendons, bursae, or ligaments around the joint might result in joint pain. The ligaments, cartilage, and bones that make up the joint are all susceptible to injury. Additionally, being a symptom of infection and joint cancer, pain is also a hallmark of joint inflammation (arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis), arthritis, and infection. Shoulder, ankle, and knee discomfort are frequently brought on by joint pain. Arthralgia is another name for joint pain. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two sexually transmitted infections (STDs) that can cause joint discomfort.

Consequences of Joint Pain

Your joint discomfort may occasionally require a visit to the doctor. If you don’t know what’s causing your joint discomfort or if you have other strange symptoms, you should schedule an appointment.

Additionally, you must visit a physician if:

• – The vicinity of the joint is red, painful, swollen, or heated to the touch.
• – The discomfort lasts for at least three days.

Yet there are no other symptoms of the flu, save a temperature.

If any of the following happens, visit the hospital’s emergency room:

• – You’ve suffered a critical injury.
• – The joint seems to be distorted.
• – Unexpected joint swelling happens.
• – The joint can’t move at all.
• – Your joints hurt a lot.

Causes of Joint Pain

Joint pain can have multiple origins:

• – Traumatic origins: when the pain occurs following an accident, a fall, a blow received… Examples include sprains, dislocations, or strains.
• – Inflammatory origins: when the pain comes from an area of the joint affected by inflammation. We speak of arthritis when the whole joint is affected; tendonitis when the inflammation affects the tendons; etc
• – Mechanical origins: when the pain is due to a deformity or the wear of the cartilage with age, as in the case of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis, which occurs mostly after the age of 50 and affects shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, and feet, is one of the main causes of joint pain.

When the pain occurs because of a deposit of sodium urate crystals in the joint, as is the case with gout attacks, crystal deposits are the cause.

If the pain also accompanies redness and/or swelling, if it intensifies and persists, and especially if it is accompanied by fever, a medical consultation is urgently required.

Knee Pain

People of all ages commonly complain about knee pain. An injury, such as a torn ligament or damaged cartilage, may cause knee pain. Knee discomfort can also be brought on by medical disorders such as arthritis, gout, and infections.

Numerous minor knee conditions respond effectively to self-care techniques. Knee braces and physical therapy are additional methods for pain relief. But occasionally, your knee could need to be surgically repaired.

Symptoms of Knee Pain

The severity and location of the knee pain may change based on the cause of the issue. Symptoms that can go together with knee pain include:

• – Discomfort from swelling and stiffness.
• – Feelings of warmth and redness
• – Instability or fragility
• –  Crunching or popping sounds.
• –  Incapability to straighten the knee

Causes of Knee Pain

Some of the most common causes of knee discomfort are as follows:

• – An acute injury, such as a meniscal tear, a torn ligament, or a shattered bone
• – diseases: infections, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
• – Conditions brought on by repeated use or overuse include osteoarthritis, chondromalacia, IT band syndrome, patellar syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis.

Acute Injuries

1. 1. A direct hit to the skeletal system might shatter one of the knee’s bones. The knee injury is typically quite noticeable and excruciating. The majority of knee fractures cause severe discomfort while bearing weight or interfere with the knee’s normal function (such as a fractured kneecap). Every fracture requires rapid medical care. To find more injuries, a thorough checkup is done, and many fractures need a lot of force to break.
2. 2. Ligament injuries: The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is the injury that occurs most frequently. An ACL injury frequently occurs as a result of sports activity due to a quick stop and direction change. The other ligaments (posterior cruciate ligament, lateral collateral ligament, and medial collateral ligament) are less frequently injured.
3. 3. Meniscus injuries to the medial and lateral menisci, which are cartilage shock absorbers between the bones in the knee, might occur. The meniscus may become damaged if the knee is bent.
4. 4. A dislocated knee joint necessitates prompt medical attention since it is a medical emergency. Blood flow to the leg might be hampered by knee dislocation, which can also cause additional issues. This injury frequently happens when the knee strikes the dashboard during a motor vehicle accident.

What Medical Problems Result in Knee Pain?

An inflammatory disease known as rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body. In addition to swelling, it can result in excruciating pain and incapacity.

The big toe is where gout is most frequently detected in people with arthritis, though it can also affect the knee. Gout frequently flares up and causes excruciating agony when it does. The knee may be pain-free when there is no flare-up.

The knee joint can get infected with septic arthritis (infectious arthritis), which causes discomfort, edema, and fever. Antibiotics and drainage treatments must be used as soon as possible for this illness.

Overuse or Chronic Conditions

Inflammation of the tendons linking the patella (the kneecap) to the shinbone is known as patellar tendinitis. People who repeat the same motion while exercising are more likely to develop the chronic ailment of patellar tendonitis.

Under the kneecap (patella), where it joins the thigh bone, there occurs degeneration or tension that leads to patellofemoral pain syndrome. The patellofemoral pain syndrome affects cyclists and runners.

Osteoarthritis is the deterioration of the joint cartilage brought on by use and aging.

Inflammation

Inflammation is a reaction brought on by harm to living tissues. Higher organisms developed the inflammatory response as a protection mechanism against infection and damage. In order for the body to start healing, it serves to both localize and get rid of the harmful substance and remove the damaged tissue’s components. Changes in blood flow, a rise in blood vessel permeability, and the movement of fluid, proteins, and white blood cells (leukocytes) from the circulation to the site of tissue damage are all parts of the reaction.

Causes of Inflammation

The root causes of inflammation Inflammations can be brought on by a variety of factors. The most typical are as follows:

• – Microorganisms known as pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungus,
• – Explicit wounds, such as scratches or injuries from foreign items,
• – Effects of radiation or chemicals

Names that end in “-itis” are frequently used to describe illnesses or medical disorders that induce inflammation. As an illustration,

• – Inflammation of the bladder is referred to as cystitis.
• – Inflammation of the bronchi is referred to as bronchitis.
• – Otitis media: middle ear irritation
• – Dermatitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the skin.

Symptoms of Inflammation

There are five signals that an acute inflammation may be present:

• – Redness
• – Heat
• – Swelling
• – Pain
• – Decline in function

Loss of function can be as simple as not being able to move an inflamed joint the right way, having a cold that makes it hard to smell, or having bronchitis that makes it hard to breathe.

Not all five symptoms are always brought on by inflammation. Some “silent” inflammations don’t produce any symptoms.

Tips to Keep Your Joints Healthy

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying issues. However, you can take some simple steps on your own to help improve your joint health. These include:

• – Keep on moving.

People with osteoarthritis tend to avoid regular physical exercise because they worry that it may aggravate their pain or cause further harm to their joints. In reality, our joints facilitate body movement as the body is designed to move. Exercise actually helps to reduces joint pain, maintain a healthy body weight, and strengthen the muscles around our joints.

• – Keep your weight at the ideal level.

In order to ensure that our joints continue to function at their best, we must stick to our ideal weight. Our joints, particularly the weight-bearing joints, take on additional stress when we can carry around more body weight. Several studies have shown that losing weight greatly improves the pain, function, and stiffness that come with knee osteoarthritis.

• – Perform exercises with low impact.

Low-impact exercise is a more moderate form of exercise that decreases the stress that is placed on joints during high-intensity workouts. Low-impact exercise is one way to get the health benefits of regular physical activity and exercise.

Exercises that are easy on our joints include activities such as walking and cycling, as well as water sports such as swimming (per Arthritis Foundation). Other low-impact activities include social sports such as golf.

• – Muscle Development

Our joints’ supporting muscles need to be as robust as possible. By performing strengthening exercises, you can work on preserving or enhancing your muscle strength.

A common component of a strengthening regimen is weightlifting. To avoid overdoing it, pace your workouts carefully. With effective strength training, you can reduce pain while improving the stability of your joints.

• – Focus on both calcium and vitamin D.

Calcium and vitamin D are two minerals necessary for strong bones. In actuality, vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption. Vitamin D can be obtained from the sun, food, or supplements.

A lot of folks require certain supplements. A blood test can be requested by a doctor to find out if you are vitamin D deficient. Low calcium is linked to lower bone density and a higher risk of fractures.

• – Eat a diet low in inflammation.

In order to manage arthritis symptoms and enhance general joint health, inflammation must be reduced. An anti-inflammatory diet consists of avoiding foods that cause inflammation and consuming more ones that reduce it. Several websites say that a Mediterranean diet is a good way to deal with inflammation.

Conclusion

If you or someone you know suffers from joint pain, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms. First and foremost, it’s important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues. If everything checks out and there is no underlying issue, then following these guidelines should help relieve most joint pain.