How can I get relief for joint pain?

As there are many causes of joint pain, finding relief to the pain is not a simple answer. To start, joint pain can have many different causes, including but not limited to simple overuse injuries, inflammation, infections, physical trauma such as meniscus tears, metabolic diseases like gout, degenerative joint disease, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. In most cases, adult joint pain is caused by overuse, and the simplest answer is to rest, provide ice, and elevate the joint. Additionally, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can be used to help relieve the inflammation associated with overuse. As with any medication, there are risks to taking medications, and care should be taken to not overuse.

The most common cause for longstanding joint pain is degenerative joint disease, and you should be evaluated by your primary care physician to rule out other causes of longstanding joint pain. Weight can play a large role in the health of joints, and being overweight can cause increased stress to the joint, increasing the potential for damage. As such, weight loss can be helpful in alleviating joint pain and preventing recurrent joint pain. In the event of sudden onset of joint pain that is severe, inhibits joint movement/use, and/or is red and swollen, the patient should seek medical attention for possible trauma to the joint.