Joint pain is a common health issue that can affect people of all ages. It can occur in any joint, but the most frequently affected areas are the knees, hips, shoulders, wrists, knuckles, ankles, and the base of the spine.

Chronic joint pain, lasting more than three months, is often linked to an underlying medical condition. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage your pain effectively.

Common symptoms of joint pain

The symptoms of joint pain vary depending on the joint affected and the underlying cause. Multiple joints may be affected at the same time, and the pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp or burning sensation.

Other common symptoms include:

• Swelling or tenderness around the joint

• Warmth or a feeling of heat in the affected area

• Visible joint distortion

• Stiffness, often worse in the morning

• Fatigue due to pain and inflammation

• Difficulty performing daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or using your hands

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a condition that reduces bone mineral density, can contribute to joint pain.

Find out more about osteoporosis

Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, affecting around 4 million Australians. It is characterised by pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and reduced mobility. The most common forms include:

• Osteoarthritis – A degenerative joint disease affecting the whole joint, including bones, cartilage, ligaments, and muscles. It occurs when protective cartilage wears away, causing pain and stiffness.

• Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune disease that attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, joint damage, and chronic pain.

Overuse of joints

Repetitive activities, such as typing or playing sports like tennis, can strain joints and lead to pain over time.

Infectious diseases

Viral infections, including mumps, influenza, and hepatitis, can cause temporary joint aches and discomfort.

Injury

Joint pain may occur due to trauma or damage from accidents or injuries.

Cancer

Certain cancers, such as bone cancer or leukemia, and some cancer treatments, can cause joint pain.

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis characterised by sudden, severe attacks of joint pain, swelling, and redness, often affecting the big toe.

Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints become inflamed, causing pain and swelling.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissue, leading to joint inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Chondromalacia

Often called “runner’s knee,” chondromalacia involves damage to the cartilage under the kneecap, typically caused by overuse or injury.

Rickets

Rickets is a skeletal disorder caused by prolonged vitamin D deficiency, which can result in joint pain and bone deformities.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons, commonly affecting the shoulder, wrist, knee, shin, or heel, leading to pain and swelling.

Sarcoidosisis

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs and tissues, including joints, causing pain and stiffness.

Treatment and management of joint pain

Treatment depends on the cause of your joint pain. Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat the underlying condition or manage symptoms.

You can also take steps to relieve joint pain and inflammation at home:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol or aspirin

• Use topical pain creams or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Engage in regular physical activity and stretching exercises

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints

• Apply heat packs or ice packs to affected areas

• Ensure adequate rest

When to see a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Serious joint injury or trauma

• Joints that are red, swollen, tender, or warm

• Persistent or worsening pain

• Fever without other flu symptoms

• Joint deformity or sudden swelling

• Difficulty moving the joint

If you’re experiencing joint pain, our pharmacists are here to support you in managing your health. Simply speak with one of our pharmacists about your symptoms, so we can recommend products, treatments, and strategies to help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint health.

General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your health care professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your health care professional. Information current as of date of publishing.

Sources

1 Arthritis Australia, Fast facts, https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/what-is-arthritis/fastfacts/