The ABC's of Joint Pain

Arthralgia or joint pain is characterized by a pain, inflammation and swelling in a joint or joints without the absolute diagnosis of arthritis. Common causes of arthralgia or joint pain are overuse or exertion that result in sprains or strains, injuries and fractures, gout, various forms of arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, various infectious disease like the flu, measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox, osteomyelitis and autoimmune diseases like lupus.

The pain associated with arthralgia will be a chronic, pulsating ache. It may be accompanied by a stiffness in the affected joint as well as redness and fever. Other symptoms may include fatigue or a general feeling of tiredness and sleeplessness. Sometimes arthralgia sufferers complain of depression and/or feelings of anxiety along with the joint pain. Joint pain may come on suddenly or accumulate over a longer period of time.

Fortunately arthralgia can be treated in a variety of ways. Mild cases can be treated successfully with a variety of remedies. Soaking in a hot tub may be successful. The heated water aids in reducing swelling and inflammation. Elevating the affected joint areas also helps reduce swelling.

Certain exercises may be prescribed by a health care professional for the muscle extension properties. Strengthening and extending the muscles of the joint help to keep the pain of swelling manageable. There are many nonprescription medicines that treat join pain well. Those containing acetaminophen and aspirin manage the pain and make living with recurring joint pain manageable. The pain reliever PAINenz has been effective for those with arthralgia. It's main ingredient capsaicin provides the roll-on, topical analgesic with the effective pain relief. Click here for more information on why PAINenz is right for you.

Activities like water aerobics, swimming and walking are known to reduce mild joint pain and swelling associated with it. Overuse and strenuous activity is the usual culprit of joint pain. Moderation is the key in these cases.

Severe, constant joint pain can be a symptom or more serious conditions. If the symptoms of your arthralgia persist for long periods of time and increase in intensity it is wise to consult a health care professional for an examination. Usually examinations pertaining to joint pain will entail blood work and x-rays. Take note of when the pain started and long the episodes last. Also note what medications you have taken before and after the episodes of joint pain.

To have the root cause of the joint pain discovered a complete physical and medical history must be taken. Joint aspiration is also used in some cases. This is where a sample of the fluid inside the affected joint is removed and tested. This process us excellent in the detection of septic arthritis and gout.

Arthralgia or joint pain is treatable and will not usually drastically impede a healthy lifestyle. Careful research of all available options is a great place to start in managing the disease.