Why do my joints hurt?

Joint pain can come from any of the anatomical structures within or surrounding a joint — including bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. In many cases, joint pain is associated with inflammation, swelling, and joint dysfunction, which can point to certain conditions as the source of your pain.

In order to determine the exact cause of your joint pain, visit the integrated medical team at NuVive Medical for a thorough exam of your joints.

What causes joint pain?

The most common cause of joint pain is arthritis. There are a number of different types of arthritis, including:

• Inflammatory arthritis, including psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

• Osteoarthritis, caused by wear and tear or trauma to your joints

• Infectious arthritis

• Metabolic arthritis, including gout

Other potential causes of joint pain include:

• Bursitis

• Tendinitis

• Meniscus tear

• Labral tear

• Intersegmental joint dysfunction

Certain activities or habits may also contribute to or worsen joint pain, including being overweight, sedentary, or participating in high-impact sports for many years.

What are the signs of joint problems?

In addition to joint pain, other signs of potential joint problems include:

• Joint swelling, warmth, and redness

• Inability to bear weight

• Joint stiffness

• Decreased range of motion

• Popping and clicking in your joint

• Tenderness along the joint line

• The sensation that your leg — including your hip or knee — may give out

• Pain with specific movements or activities

Occasional joint pain that lasts for one to two days is fairly normal, especially if you’ve changed your daily routine or tried a new exercise program. Joint pain that lasts more than two days or that flares up in a chronic manner may indicate a more serious joint problem. The NuVive Medical team provides care for all causes of joint pain and can help you understand the root cause of your pain in order to alleviate your discomfort and help you recover.

How is joint pain treated?

Joint pain treatment depends on the cause of your pain and the severity of your discomfort. Based on your consultation, exam, and any recommended imaging, the team explains your diagnosis and treatment options. Common treatments for joint pain include:

• Medical joint injections

• Chiropractic care

• Rehab therapy

• Soft tissue therapy

• Hot and cold therapy

• Lifestyle changes, including losing weight or modifying your exercise program

• In order to determine which treatment plan is best for you, see the team for a consultation.

To schedule your consultation, call NuVive Medical today.