Understanding Joint Pain

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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 over use, 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.

Below are several 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

Osteoarthritis 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 in or near a joint.

Self-care that includes ice and resting the joint are often effective. A doctor should evaluate ongoing pain.

If you're or someone you know is seeking relief for tendonitis, call the Broward Health Line at 954-759-7400 for more information and a free physician referral. If you prefer to search online, please visit the Physician Directory and complete an Appointment Request Form.

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. 

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by severe pain in the heel of the foot, especially when standing up after resting. The condition is due to an overuse injury of the sole surface (plantar) of the foot and results in inflammation of the fascia.

Don't Ignore Your Symptoms

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.

If you believe your injury requires medical attention, Broward Health can offer a diverse team of Orthopedic specialists. For a free physician referral, call our Broward Health Line at 954-759-7400. If you prefer to search online, please visit our Orthopedic Physician Directory, and then request an appointment through our online Appointment Request Form.