Top treatments for joint pain!

The human body has around 400 joints: these give it its mobility and flexibility but also represent as many potential sources of pain. Joint pain, which occurs in particular with age (but not only), is in fact one of the most widespread health problems. The joints, which connect the different parts of the body together, are also complex mechanisms, composed of many elements: cartilage, ligaments, membranes, fluids, tissues, etc. The causes of joint pain can therefore be multiple.

With multiple possible causes, joint pain can be more or less intense, and more or less easy to relieve. It can affect one joint (knee, hip, hand, etc.) or several simultaneously.

A complete overview to better understand and better manage joint pain!

• What are joint pains?
• What causes joint pain?
• Symptoms of joint pain
• Treatments for joint pain
• How to prevent joint pain?

What are joint pains?

A joint is a junction between two bones.

There are 3 types of joints:

• Immobile joints such as those of the skull where movement is almost impossible,

• Semi-mobile joints such as vertebrae and ribs allow limited movements,

• Movable joints such as those of the shoulders, hands and knees, a viscous fluid called synovium allows the bones to slide.

Joint pain is an unpleasant sensation felt in one or more joints. It can be acute or chronic, and can have several causes which, depending on the signs, point to a cause and origin.

What causes joint pain?

Joint pain can have various origins, ranging from simple trauma to chronic diseases. Understanding their cause allows for appropriate treatment.

• Traumatic origins : occur after a shock, a fall or a false movement. They include sprains, dislocations and elongations, often accompanied by swelling or limitation of movement.
• Inflammatory origins : linked to local inflammation, they concern arthritis (damage to the entire joint) or tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons). These pains are often associated with redness and a feeling of heat.
• Mechanical origins : result from progressive wear and tear of the joints, particularly in the case of osteoarthritis, which mainly affects the hips, knees, hands and feet after the age of 50. They manifest themselves as stiffness and pain accentuated by movement.
• Infectious origins : certain viral infections, such as influenza or chikungunya, can cause temporary joint pain due to an inflammatory reaction.
• Crystal deposits : When sodium urate crystals build up in the joints, they trigger painful attacks, such as gout, often located in the big toe.

Symptoms of joint pain

Joint pain can be a sign of inflammation, infection, cartilage wear, or other joint conditions. It can affect one or more joints and can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms that vary in intensity depending on the cause.

Joint stiffness, often after a period of inactivity or in the morning

Joint stiffness is a common symptom , particularly observed in the morning upon waking or after a period of prolonged inactivity. In the case of osteoarthritis, this stiffness gradually disappears after a few movements, while in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, it can last for several hours. This feeling of blocking makes everyday movements more difficult and often requires a warm-up phase to regain some flexibility.

Joint swelling

Joint swelling usually indicates a buildup of synovial fluid in the joint . This inflammation can be caused by trauma, arthritis, gout, or joint infection. The swollen joint sometimes becomes painful to the touch and can limit movement. In some cases, the swelling is associated with a feeling of heaviness and discomfort that hinders mobility.

Redness

A red joint is often a sign of significant inflammation . This redness is usually accompanied by local warmth and may spread to nearby tissues depending on the severity of the inflammation. In diseases such as gout or some forms of arthritis, the redness is particularly marked and is accompanied by intense pain. When the inflammation becomes chronic, the redness may subside, but the joint remains painful and sensitive.

Feeling of heat in the joint

A painful joint may also feel warm to the touch. This is due to increased blood flow to the inflamed area, which is typical of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis . Joint warmth can also be a sign of infection, especially if accompanied by fever and significant swelling. In these cases, prompt medical attention is necessary to avoid complications.

Lack of flexibility

When the joint is inflamed or worn, movements become progressively more difficult . Gestures that were previously harmless, such as bending the fingers, raising the arm or squatting, require more effort and can cause immediate pain. In chronic pathologies such as osteoarthritis, this loss of flexibility is progressive and irreversible if it is not treated in time. Conversely, in inflammatory diseases, flexibility can be regained after a phase of mobilization and warm-up.

Loss of mobility

As pain and inflammation set in, the joint may lose mobility . This can be temporary, such as after an acute inflammatory attack, or long-term as the disease progresses and causes joint damage. Prolonged loss of mobility can lead to muscle wasting, which further aggravates difficulty moving. In some severe cases, such as ankylosing spondylitis, stiffness can become permanent and require specific management to prevent joint deformity.

Treatments for joint pain

Joint pain can be treated in a variety of ways depending on its origin and intensity. Drug treatments help relieve pain and inflammation, while non-drug and natural approaches help improve mobility and limit the progression of joint pathologies .

Pharmacological treatments

Analgesics

Paracetamol is often the first resort to relieve mild to moderate joint pain. It is well tolerated by most patients and can be taken continuously according to medical recommendations. In case of more intense pain, mild opioids , such as codeine or tramadol , may be prescribed. However, their use must be limited in time to avoid the risks of addiction and side effects, including drowsiness and digestive disorders.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, diclofenac or naproxen , are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain. They are available in different forms: tablets, gels, creams or injections depending on the location and severity of the pain. However, their prolonged use can cause side effects, including gastric disorders (ulcers, reflux), kidney damage or cardiovascular risks. It is therefore recommended to take them under medical supervision and to opt for less aggressive alternatives when possible.

Non-drug approaches

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in treating joint pain by improving joint function and preventing the breakdown of affected structures . Muscle strengthening exercises help stabilise joints and reduce stress on them. Regular stretching and mobilisation help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Hot or cold water therapy is also effective in reducing inflammation and relieving pain.

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy aims to teach patients to adopt gestures and postures that preserve the joints on a daily basis . It includes the use of aids, such as orthoses or splints , which support the joint and reduce the mechanical load. These adaptations improve comfort and limit the progression of certain joint pathologies.

Weight loss

For people with joint pain, especially in the knees, hips, and back , losing weight can significantly reduce symptoms. By reducing the load on weight-bearing joints, weight loss helps slow cartilage wear and improve mobility .

Adapted physical activity

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining joint flexibility and strengthening surrounding muscles. Low-impact exercises, such as walking,yoga , swimming, or cycling , allow you to move without putting too much strain on your joints. Proper physical activity also promotes the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates your joints and improves their function .

Natural or complementary approaches

Medicinal plants

Some plants have recognized anti-inflammatory properties and are often used as complements to conventional treatments. Harpagophytum , also called devil's claw , is known for its beneficial effects on chronic joint pain . Turmeric , thanks to its high concentration of curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce joint pain. Boswellia , a tree resin extract, is also used for its positive effects on inflammation and joint flexibility.

Nutritional supplements

Glucosamine and chondroitin are commonly suggested supplements to improve cartilage health . Their effectiveness varies across studies, but some patients report improved mobility and reduced pain with regular use. Omega -3s , found in oily fish and supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint stiffness and inflammation.

Complementary therapies

Alternative therapies can provide additional relief in addition to conventional treatments . Acupuncture , by stimulating certain points on the body, is used to reduce pain and improve blood circulation around the joints. Osteopathy and chiropractic can improve posture and joint mobility by working on muscle and joint imbalances. These methods, while not replacing medical treatments, can be effective solutions to improve daily comfort.

How to prevent joint pain?

Joint pain can be caused by the natural wear and tear of cartilage, trauma, inflammatory diseases or even bad daily habits. In order to limit their appearance and preserve the health of the joints in the long term, it is essential to adopt appropriate actions and behaviors.

Exercise

Physical activity is a great way to prevent joint pain by strengthening the muscles that surround and support the joints. Regularly doing appropriate exercises improves joint stability and reduces the risk of injury . Low-impact sports, such as swimming, cycling or walking, are particularly recommended because they put stress on the joints without damaging them. Strengthening muscles, especially in the knees, hips and back, helps to better distribute the load and limit the pressure on the joints. It is also important to avoid a sedentary lifestyle, as inactivity promotes joint stiffness and muscle weakness.

Avoid bad postures

Adopting good posture is essential to protect your joints and avoid unnecessary tension. Poor posture, especially when sitting for long periods of time or performing repetitive movements, can cause chronic pain, particularly in the back, neck and knees . It is recommended to keep your back straight when sitting, making sure that your feet are firmly on the floor and that the computer screen is at eye level to avoid neck tension. Similarly, it is advisable to avoid standing for too long in a static position and to change your posture regularly to avoid putting excessive strain on certain joints.

How to transport heavy loads properly

Carrying heavy loads is one of the main causes of joint pain, especially in the back and knees. To avoid injury, it is important to adopt the correct technique when lifting objects . It is important to bend your knees rather than your back, keeping the weight of the object close to your body and using the strength of your legs rather than your back. When carrying a bag, it is best to distribute the weight evenly, for example by using a backpack with adjusted straps rather than a shoulder bag that unbalances your posture. If the object is too heavy, do not hesitate to ask for help or use a trolley to avoid overloading your joints.

Don't forget to stretch and warm up

Stretching and warming up are often overlooked, yet they play a fundamental role in preventing joint pain. Before any physical activity, a gradual warm-up increases muscle temperature and prepares the joints for the movements to come, thus reducing the risk of injury. After exercise, stretching helps relax the muscles and prevent tension that can cause joint pain. Even outside of a sporting activity, it is beneficial to perform regular stretches to maintain good flexibility and avoid joint stiffness.

Do not hesitate to contact a professional if joint pain persists despite our advice!