Joint Care
Sprained ankles and wrists, arthritic knees and hips, and torn rotator cuffs all have one thing in common: they result in joint pain. The usual causes of joint pain are overuse, sprains, fractures, and arthritis. Becoming familiar with the usual causes and symptoms of joint pain can help you seek appropriate treatment and ongoing care, if necessary.
If you are seeking help, Enloe Health has a dedicated team of orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists experienced in treating all causes of joint pain. Our caregivers will assess the specific pain you’re having, take the time to understand the origin of the issue and develop a comprehensive plan for treating your symptoms.
Medical Conditions That Can Cause Joint Pain
Arthritis
Persistent joint pain, swelling, and limited range of motion are typical symptoms of arthritis. Inflammatory types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid or gouty arthritis, may also make the joint red, hot, and tender to the touch.
Mild arthritis can often be self-managed with pain relievers, ice, and gentle range-of-motion exercise. Pain that is getting worse or is severe warrants a trip to the doctor to verify the diagnosis and get stronger medications or other therapies.
Osteoarthritis
This is a chronic disease of the joints and the most common joint disorder. The cartilage between a joint’s bones gradually wears away with time and use. The lack of cartilage results in pain and stiffness in the joint.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon, a thick fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone. Some common names for tendonitis are tennis or golfer’s elbow and repetitive stress injury. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and mild swelling near a joint. Self-care that includes ice and resting the joint are often effective. A doctor should evaluate ongoing pain.
Sprains
A sprain is an injury to a ligament. The severity of the injury depends on how badly a ligament is torn or strained and the number of ligaments involved. A sprain can result from a fall, sudden twist, or blow to the body that forces a joint out of its normal position. The usual signs and symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and loss of the ability to use the joint.
Bursitis
The bursae are fluid-filled sacs around the joints that allow muscles and tendons to slip easily over the ends of bones. If these bursae become inflamed, the joint will be painful.
When to See a Doctor
Although mild joint pain can often be treated with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) and over-the-counter pain and inflammation relievers, you should see a doctor if you have severe pain, can’t put any weight on the joint, it looks crooked, or you can’t move it. Do not resume full activity before you have fully recovered, or you'll be at greater risk for reinjury.
