Compiled by Angela Mutiso
The Treatment for Joint Pain Depends On the Underlying Cause of the Pain
In order to really understand joint pain (or many other ailments) you need, in some cases to have experienced it, taken care of someone suffering from it, or read enough about it. Uncle Janny was seated on a sofa in his living room, unable to move because of the severe gout pain he was experiencing. His sore leg was stretched out, and no one was allowed to go anywhere near him. Suddenly, his daughter Leonida, unintentionally, did just that. At that point, uncle Janny let out a heart rending yell that got everyone scampering for safety. Apparently, Leonida’s long scarf had grazed his tender toe and the resulting pain was unbearable.
Describing gout pain, nhsinform says the main symptom of gout is a sudden attack of severe pain in one or more joints, typically your big toe. Other symptoms can include: the joint feeling hot and very tender, to the point of being unable to bear anything touching it. It is a swelling in and around the affected joint. Meanwhile, having joint discomfort on both feet, ankles, wrists, and fingers, or on both sides of the body, a severe morning stiffness that lasts at least one hour, and sore muscles all across the body could be the onset of arthritis pain.
Joint pain, is commonly referred to as a widespread condition that can be triggered by various
factors, such as arthritis, injury, overuse, inflammation, infection, or disease. It is a discomforting and sore sensation that can affect any joint in the body, including the knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, and fingers. This condition is not exclusive to older adults and can affect people of all ages. The pain can
originate from different parts of a joint, such as bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, or muscles, and can manifest as stiffness, soreness, or swelling. It can also be caused by infection or disease. The pain can be sharp or dull and can be constant or intermittent. It can also be accompanied by swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint. This pain can range from mild to severe and can affect a person’s ability to perform regular chores.
What causes it?
It is worth noting that joint pain can stem from various conditions. Arthritis, a common cause of joint pain, leads to inflammation and pain in the joints. It encompasses different types, like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. An injury to a joint may come about from a fall, sports injury, car accident, or other accidents. Overuse of a joint can also cause inflammation and pain in the joint. Inflammation, which can arise from an infection or disease such as lupus or psoriasis, can lead to swelling, redness, and pain in the joint.
Who is Affected Most by it?
Joint pain can affect people of all ages, although it is more common in older adults. Women are more likely to develop joint pain than men. People who are overweight or obese are also prone to joint pain.
How do you avoid it?
One of the things you can do is to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is bad. Healthy eating can help reduce the stress on your joints and prevent injury. Regular exercise helps as well. It can improve joint flexibility and strength, which can help reduce the risk of injury. It is important to choose low-impact exercises that are gentle on your joints, like swimming or yoga. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals is good for you. Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and nuts, normally reduce inflammation in the body.
How Do You Treat Joint Pains?
The treatment for joint pain depends on the underlying cause of the pain. Physical therapy can be helpful. A physical therapist can guide you to do exercises that can improve joint flexibility and strength. This reduces pain and improves your ability to perform daily activities. You are advised to rest, try placing ice on the painful area. Compression, and elevation can also be helpful. In some cases, medication may be necessary to treat joint pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and pain in the joint. Asprin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, work by reducing inflammation in the body. They can reduce pain and swelling in the affected joint.
In some cases, stronger pain medication may be necessary. Opioids, like codeine or morphine, are sometimes prescribed for severe pain. However, these medications can be addictive and can have side effects, like dizziness and constipation. In addition to medication, a therapist can work with you to develop an appropriate exercise program. They may also massage or use heat therapy, to help reduce pain and stiffness. The natural foods that could help you fight this disease include; Dark leafy greens, nuts, olive oil, berries, garlic, onions and green tea.
Who gets it Most?
Joint pain can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults. This is because as
we age, our joints begin to wear down and become less flexible. In addition, older adults are more likely to develop conditions, such as arthritis, that can cause joint pain. However, joint pain can also affect younger people, particularly those who are involved in sports or other activities that put stress on the joints. Research has shown that women are also more likely to develop joint pain than men.
What Kind of Exercises Can You Do When You Have this condition?
Exercise is an important part of managing joint pain. Regular exercise can ease the pain and stiffness in the affected joint. However, it is important to choose exercises that are gentle on the joints and avoid high-impact activities. Swimming is a great low-impact exercise and can be beneficial for people with joint pain. Water gives buoyancy, which can help limit the stress on the joints. Other gentle exercises include yoga, tai chi, and walking. Take omega 3 as well. Strength training exercises are good. They improve joint strength and stability, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility. However, it is important to work with a physical therapist or trainer to develop a strength training. Remember, there are several things you can do to help prevent this pain, including maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet. Treatment for joint pain depends on the underlying cause of the pain and can include rest, physical therapy, medication, and surgery. If you are experiencing joint pain, it is important to talk to a doctor to find out which treatment is best for you. Remember that you become more fragile as you age, so it is important to be extra careful about climbing, and where you walk or go to avoid falls.
Health Tips
1.) Productive achievement is a consequence and an expression of health and self-esteem, not its cause- Nathaniel Branden.
2.) Fresh activity is the only way of overcoming adversity- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
4.) To reduce dehydration and the effects of a hangover, drink as much water as possible when taking alcohol.
5.) After a shower, do not over-dry your body, but while still damp, rub lotion over your body to stay moist and supple.
6.) Relieve yourself when you feel the urge; your body is trying to tell you something-David Pine.
7.) To remove a splinter from a child’s finger, soak the injured part in any cooking oil for a few minutes. The splinter will then be removed easily- Mary Ellen.
The writer is the editorial consultant of the Accountant Journal.
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