Joint pain is the sensation of discomfort or soreness in a joint or joints of the body. Joints are the spaces or areas where two or more bones meet, such as the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow and ankle. Joint pain can occur with or without movement and can be severe enough to limit movement. People may describe joint pain as discomfort, inflammation, increased warmth or burning, soreness, stiffness, or pain. Joint pain may last briefly or it may be chronic, which is defined as lasting more than three months.

Joint Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in one or more joints, which may worsen with movement or activity.

Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected joint.

Stiffness: Difficulty moving the joint, especially after periods of rest or in the morning.

Decreased Range of Motion: Limited ability to fully bend or straighten the joint.

Weakness and Fatigue: Muscles surrounding the affected joint may feel weak, and overall fatigue may be experienced.

Decreased Mobility: Painful joints can limit mobility and make it challenging to perform daily activities.

Muscle Weakness: Reduced use of affected joints can lead to muscle weakness and atrophy.

Joint Deformity: Severe arthritis can cause joint deformities and irreversible damage.

Chronic Pain: Persistent joint pain can significantly impact quality of life, leading to chronic pain conditions.

Emotional Impact: Limited mobility and chronic pain can contribute to anxiety, depression, and decreased overall well-being.

Use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers or topical creams to alleviate joint pain.

Engage in exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist to improve joint flexibility and strength.

Apply cold or heat fomentation packs to the affected joints to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on weight bearing joints like the hips and knees.

Use assistive devices, ergonomic tools, and proper body mechanics to protect joints during daily activities.