According to research by Arthritis health association, it is estimated that a third of the world population suffer joint pain daily. Joints refer to body tissues that help support movements in the body. Joint pain can be described as inflammation, pain, or discomfort occurring in the joint itself or part of the joint, such as tendons, muscles, ligaments, or cartilage. Depending on the cause of the pain, it can be mild or severe, affecting movement and ability to perform daily tasks. Joint pain can occur on the neck, knees, jaw, hip, or top of the spine. Here are few remedies to make you feel better.
Causes of joint pain
Arthritis
This mainly affects older people, and it refers to an inflammation, which occurs around the joint space. Cartilage is the tissue which serves as a cushion between the joints and bones. As we age, this cartilage tends to break down, leading to arthritis.
Performing repetitive movement
Exercising has numerous health benefits, but it can also lead to joint pain, particularly when there is a repetitive movement. Exercises like dancing, yoga, and running can lead to joint pain.
Fibromyalgia
This condition, which mostly affects women is triggered by an inflammatory response in the brain, thus sending pain signals throughout the body. The cause of the condition is unknown, but certain things like stress, noise, or extreme smell can trigger it. The pain doesn’t affect the joints only, but the entire body.
Bone cancer
Although bone cancer is a rare form of cancer, it affects an estimated 2000 people every year. If cancer or the tumor is near the joint, then the patient will experience joint pain. Alongside joint pain, swelling, and inflammation can also occur in the joint. Joint pain is a classic symptom of bone cancer, especially when the pain is extreme at night.
Remedies to Joint Pain
Do more exercises
Remember, stiff muscles caused by limited activity can lead to joint pain or worsen some conditions like arthritis. Exercising enables you to stretch and strengthen such muscles and improve the blood circulation, thus reducing joint pain.
Remember, sports injuries which result mainly from intense pressure can also cause joint pain. According to Dean’s Sports Therapy, a leading specialist in sports injuries in Los Angeles, it is vital to start with simple exercises to avoid injuring your joints. Some of the highly recommended simple exercises include swimming, yoga, walking, cycling, and aerobics, among others. As you continue, increase the intensity and the duration of your exercise to strengthen your muscles to lower joint pain.
Epsom salt
This is the most common remedy for muscle or joint pain. It involves taking a relaxing bath or soaking in Epsom salt, which is known to contain high levels of magnesium and sulfate. The Epsom salt can dissolve easily in water and be absorbed in the body, thus lowering inflammation, reduce muscle spasms as well as relax the tense areas. For best results, dilute two cups and soak for at least 25 minutes.
Watch your diet
Dietary management can help reduce joint pain by lowering chronic inflammation, which is a leading cause of tissue degeneration. An anti-inflammatory diet enriched in omega -3 acids, fresh fruits, and vegetables contain antioxidants which lower the effects of aging. Also, try to limit sugar intake and processed foods as they worsen the joint pain.
Joint pain can affect patients in many ways ranging from mild to severe pain. Understanding the causes of joint pain can help you adopt a better lifestyle, which in turn reduces the chances of joint pain. Also, know when to consult your doctor as joint pain can be a sign of a serious condition.