Joint pain gets more common as we age, but it doesn’t mean that we have to put up with it. There are many causes of joint pain and just as many ways to treat it. Below, we have gathered a few tips for treating joint pain at home, as well as information on when to see a doctor about joint pain. Take a look now to learn more.
Table of Contents
What Causes Joint Pain?
Joint pain can be caused by a number of different things, including:
- A sprain or strain: This usually looks like swelling and bruising after exercise
- Osteoarthritis: If you have been formally diagnosed, you will likely have been given ways to ease this pain. It is characterized by stiffness after moving.
- Bursitis: This looks like a hot, swollen joint that hurts to press
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This is characterized by pain and stiffness that become worse after not moving for long periods of time
- Gout: Pain, swelling, and heat in the big toe
- Joint infection: This looks like a hot, swollen joint as well as a high temperature or feeling hot and shivery
Ways to Treat Joint Pain
Though there are quite a few causes of joint pain, there are also a few ways to treat it. If you have been diagnosed with a condition, your doctor will likely have given you advice on how to ease any pain. If your injury is from exercise or sports, take a look below to find some easy ways to relieve joint pain.
1. Rest
Rest is the best treatment for any injury, as well as joint pain. By staying off your joint, you’re ensuring you’re not making it any worse and giving it the time and space to heal properly.
2. Cold Pack Treatment
An ice pack or cold compress can help to reduce swelling and pain in joints. Use for 20 minutes at a time every few hours. Remember to wrap it in a towel to protect your skin.
3. Painkillers
Over-the-counter painkillers are useful for joint pain; however, you should not take ibuprofen in the first 48 hours after injury. Remember to always follow dosage guidelines on the packets and speak with a doctor if you’re concerned about taking OTC painkillers.
4. Weight Loss
Being overweight can put unnecessary pressure on your joints, and so it is recommended that you lose weight if you have found no other cause for joint pain. Weight loss can be difficult for some, but following a healthy and balanced diet, getting more exercise, and sleeping enough each night can all help you to shed any excess weight.
Speak with a doctor or nutritionist if you think your weight may be contributing to joint pain.
5. See a Chiropractor
A chiropractor can help you with any alignment issues that are causing pressure on your joints. Chiropractic treatment is concerned with manual therapy that eases problems in the bones, muscles, and joints.
A chiropractor, like those at Richmond Chiropractor, can help you to deal with joint pain and will be able to offer advice and guidance on managing the pain at home.
When to See a Doctor
If your joint pain is not getting better, is affecting your sleep, or is stopping you from doing day-to-day tasks, it is time to see a doctor. You should also seek healthcare if the pain keeps coming back, gets worse, or doesn’t improve within 2 weeks of at-home treatment.
Final Thoughts
Joint pain can be debilitating, but thankfully, there is a ton of ways you can treat it at home. A chiropractor can also help you out with a holistic approach to joint pain. If you have been suffering from joint pain for a long time, seek a doctors advise.
Remember to always speak with a doctor if you’re unsure of any home remedies or if you’re concerned about joint pain.
