What Causes That Nagging Joint Pain?

Joint pain refers to discomfort around the joints and often affects areas such as the knees, elbows, toes, lower back, and wrists. Joint pain can generally be categorized into two types: those with inflammation (arthritis) and those without inflammation.

Inflammatory Joint Pain (Arthritis)

Joint pain with inflammation is known as arthritis. This type of pain involves swelling and redness in the affected area, which may also show abnormal results in blood tests. Because inflammatory pain can lead to joint damage, it’s crucial to address it promptly.

Non-Inflammatory Joint Pain

Non-inflammatory joint pain does not usually cause redness or inflammation markers in blood tests. This pain often originates from nerve or muscle issues and is less likely to lead to joint damage.

How to Prevent Joint Pain

While factors like aging, disease, and injuries are sometimes unavoidable, joint pain can often be prevented through lifestyle adjustments.

Keeping a healthy weight is essential, as excess weight puts added strain on the knee joints, leading to deformation or damage over time. Joint pain, especially in the knees, can significantly restrict mobility. Aim to maintain an appropriate weight based on your height and age.

Also, strengthening the muscles around your joints helps to protect them. Exercises like squats or glute training can help prevent joint pain. Walking, jogging, and swimming are also beneficial.

What to Do if You Experience Joint Pain

If you feel joint pain, you should identify the cause first. Visit an orthopedic specialist to check the joint’s condition.

Some types of joint pain, such as those caused by rheumatoid arthritis or gout, require immediate treatment, so avoid self-diagnosis. Instead, follow medical advice and avoid relying solely on over-the-counter treatments.

For joint pain related to aging, obesity, or lack of exercise, similar preventive measures apply, such as moderate exercise, a healthy diet, and wearing joint supports to reduce strain. While worn cartilage cannot regenerate, supports can help stabilize movement.

Joint replacement options are also available to restore mobility; consult with a physician for guidance.