Best Ways to Stop Joint Pain: Remedies & Treatment
Joint pain is a common condition that affects people of all ages and can result from various causes such as arthritis, injury, overuse, or inflammation. It is characterized by stiffness, swelling, and discomfort in the joints, which leads to limited mobility and reduced quality of life.
As of now, there is no permanent cure for joint pain. However, with a comprehensive approach, individuals can reduce symptoms and achieve successful long-term pain management. This guide covers the effective remedies for joint pain, its causes, and more.
Keep reading!
What are the Top Remedies for Joint Pain?
Some of the most effective ways to stop joint pain are:
- Home Remedies: Your healthcare provider may recommend applying ice or a heating pad to the affected area several times a day for short periods. Soaking in a warm bath is another effective way to ease discomfort and promote relief.
- Exercise: Regaining strength and function can be aided by exercise. So, it is advisable to engage in low-impact cardio exercises like swimming or walking. Performing mild stretches will also be beneficial.
- Weight Loss: If necessary, your doctor might advise weight loss to relieve joint stress.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) may help reduce your joint pain. Consult your healthcare provider to determine whether this is a suitable option for you if you have a history of liver illness, renal disease, or stomach ulcers.
- Topical Treatments: To help reduce joint pain, your doctor can suggest topical medications like ointments or gels that you can apply to the hurt joint area.
- Dietary Supplements: Glucosamine is one dietary supplement that may help reduce joint pain. However, before taking any supplements, ask your doctor.
If the above-mentioned medications or treatments do not ease your pain, your healthcare provider may prescribe:
- Supportive aids such as an orthotic device in your shoe, a brace, or a cane to support your joint and facilitate mobility.
- A well-rounded exercise program combined with physical or occupational therapy can help progressively reduce discomfort and increase flexibility.
- Antidepressant pills to enhance sleep quality.
- Steroids are also frequently injected into the joints to temporarily reduce pain and swelling.
It is important to keep in mind that everyone reacts differently to medications. What works for one individual might not work for another. So, when taking any medication, be sure to carefully follow your doctor's instructions and let them know if you have any side effects.
What Causes Joint Pain?
To avail the best treatment for joint pain, it is crucial that you have a clear idea of its causes:
- Osteoarthritis: A common kind of arthritis in which your cartilage, which acts as a cushion between your bones, deteriorates over time. Osteoarthritis typically appears after the age of 45 and progresses slowly.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that makes your joints swell and hurt.
- Gout: When acidic crystals from your body build up in your joint, it can lead to gout, an ailment that causes excruciating pain and swelling. It usually happens in your big toe.
- Bursitis: Bursitis is caused by overuse of the joint. Generally, you will find it in your shoulder, elbow, knee, or hip.
- Tendinitis: Tendinitis is the inflammation of tendons, the thick cords that attach muscles to bones. It usually affects the shoulder, heel, or elbow and is often caused by repetitive movement or overuse.
Additionally, joint mobility may be uncomfortable due to viral infections, rash, or fever. Joint discomfort can also result from injuries like sprains or fractured bones.
Which Health Insurance is Best for Joint Pain Management?
Managing chronic joint conditions often involves ongoing physiotherapy, diagnostics, medication, and specialist visits, which lead to significant expenses.
Star Health Insurance offers health plans that are ideal for managing such long-term joint pain conditions. These plans include:
- Coverage for orthopaedic consultations and imaging tests
- Emergency hospitalization during acute pain episodes
With cashless claim approvals in under 2 hours, telemedicine, and e-pharmacy discounts, Star Health ensures quality care and peace of mind for individuals battling joint pain.
Call us now for further details!