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Writer's pictureRobin R Varghese, PT.

"Arthralgia" or 'pain in joint' might not be uncommon to you, but we can help you with our approach.

Updated: Jul 4, 2023

Arthralgia



  • Arthralgia means pain in a joint.

  • It is derived from Greek words, arthro (joint) and algos (pain)

  • Joints ache and get sore, or one may experience tenderness, swelling, or stiffness in or around a joint.

  • It can refer to any type of pain in the joints.

  • But, for clarity United States National Library of Medicine has determined that the term "arthralgia" should be used only to describe joint pain not caused by inflammatory diseases like arthritis.

  • It can affect one or many joints

Causes

  • Joint pain can be caused by many types of injuries or conditions. It may be linked to arthritis, bursitis, and muscle pain.

  • Other reasons that can cause arthralgia are:

-Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

-Bursitis

-Chondromalacia patellae

-Crystals in the joint -- gout (especially found in the big toe) and CPPD arthritis (pseudogout)

-Infections caused by a virus

-Injury, such as a fracture

-Osteomyelitis (bone infection)

-Osteomyelitis (bone infection)

-Septic arthritis (joint infection)

-Tendinitis

-Unusual exertion or overuse, including strains or sprains

There may be certain conditions that can have joint pain as a symptom. Like

-Arthritis

-Bone disease

-Cancer

-Allergic reactions

-Diabetes

-Inflammatory diseases

-Hypo/Hyperthyroidism

-Infections like Lyme disease

-Immune disorders like Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sjogrens disease,etc

-Insect bites

-Nerve compression




JOINT PAIN (ARTHRALGIA) SYMPTOMS

If you're considering seeing a doctor, you are probably experiencing some of the following symptoms:


  • mild ache or soreness

  • severe or excruciating pain

  • inability to use the limb to walk or carry objects

  • limited joint motion

  • locking of the joint

  • stiffness

  • swelling (inflammation)

  • tenderness

  • warmth around the joint

  • weakness


Joint pain can be intermittent and gradual, or it can be sudden.

It may begin after activity or even without any specific reason.

It may disappear after rest and medication or might not get relieved with medication.



Treatment:

Understanding the cause of the pain is very important is treating it.

For non-arthritic joint pain, both rest and exercise are important. Warm baths, massage, and stretching exercises should be used as often as possible

Depending on the diagnosis, one may be advised (or prescribed):

  • anti-inflammatories (NSAID's)

  • antibiotics (for infection)

  • antivirals (for viruses)

  • corticosteroids like prednisone (for rheumatological diseases)

  • pain relievers: over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription

  • topicals like capsaicin

Physical therapy

Exercises, including aquatic therapy, mobility, stretching and strengthening exercises and sports medicine are pain management techniques that may help relieve arthralgia.

Aims:

Restore the use of affected joints

Reduce pain and strengthen muscles to support the joints

Improve mobility of the affected joints


Treatment

Some of the treatment techniques include


· Hydrotherapy

· Weight management training

. Mobility exercises

. Stretching and strengthening exercise



At Valley Healing Hands, we provide the best Physical Therapy for Arthralgia.

Our physiotherapist will create an individualized treatment plan to improve flexibility, coordination and strength for maximum physical function. They will help you understand what you are experiencing and help you attain the goals set during the sessions. Our patients are totally satisfied with our services. You may learn about what they have to say about us here and get connected to us here. Our patients love us. You too will!!!


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