JOINT PAIN

Joint pain can range from a mild irritation all the way to debilitating. Most is acute pain, meaning it goes away after a short period of time. However, many times individuals also experience chronic pain in their knees, elbow,etc. which is defined as joint pain that last longer than 3 months. As with any other type of pain treatment it should always be done under the strict care of a doctor.

Acute pain in multiple joints is most often due to inflammation, a chronic condition flare up or gout. However, chronic pain in multiple joints can typically be attributed to osteoarthritis or an inflammatory disorder.

Pain that seems to come from joints, can sometimes come from structures outside of the joints–ligaments, tendons, or muscles. We see examples of this in patients with bursitis or tendinitis.

1. Improving Posture - The human body is constructed to maintain a specific posture. Holding the appropriate straightened posture reduces the amount of strain placed on joints by allowing the skeletal and muscle system to carry a larger amount of weight. Individuals with poor posture can easily make a substantial change with just a little effort.
2. Relax - In case you needed another reason to treat yourself with a trip to the spa you can do your joints a huge favor by getting a massage or taking a paraffin bath. For those of us who can't afford to hit the spa on a regular basis, soaking in a warm bath can help relax joints and muscles, and there is no need to pay for an expensive masseuse when you can personally massage your joints.
3. Let The Big Joints Do The Work - When doing any type of heavy lifting, it is important to allow larger joints, such as knees or elbows, to do the major work. Placing to much stress on joints in the hands or feet can easily cause injury or speed up wear and tear of a joint, leading to pain. Larger joints are designed to carry heavier loads and are less likely to be damaged in the process.
4. Get In Shape - Joint damage through everyday activity is substantially increased if an individual is overweight. Less weight on your frame means less work for your joints during everyday activity. Reducing your body weight can prevent damage to joints and can also alleviate existing joint
   pain.
5. Cut The Caffeine - High caffeine intake has been known to weaken bones and also weaken
   joints. By reducing caffeine intake you can promote healthier bones and joints. Increasing calcium intake can also help promote stronger and healthier bones and can be accomplished through a nutritional supplement or by increasing intake of foods that are natural sources of calcium. Although there is no way to completely prevent damage to joints, making these lifestyle changes will promote greater joint health and reduce the likelihood of joint related issues and pain in the future.