- Symptoms of joint pain include tenderness, warmth and swelling in the area where pain is experienced. Stiffness may also be present. Symptoms may occur when walking, running or doing weight bearing exercises. Symptoms also can develop without any kind of pressure being applied to the joint.
- Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin reduce inflammation in the joint, and Tylenol can reduce pain. Prescription narcotics such as Percocet may reduce severe joint pain. An ingredient in some lotions or ointments called capsaicin can help by interfering with pain signals being sent to the brain. When the brain does not receive the pain signal, no pain is felt. Corticosteroids such as prednisone can be taken orally or be injected directly into the affected joint to reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids are only for short-term treatment because of their side effects.
- When conservative treatments do not relieve severe joint pain, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery involves removal of the damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial one. For smaller joints, such as those in the hands or wrists, the surgeon will remove the ends of two bones in the joint and lock the ends together. This procedure causes the bones to heal into one piece.
- Joint pain may be reduced by using cold packs and heating pads, by resting and by taking anti-inflammatory medicines. Wrap ice or a cold pack in a towel and apply to the affected joint for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling. Applying heat may reduce stiffness and pain. Paraffin wax dips may provide pain relief for sore joints in feet and hands.
Low-impact exercises, such swimming and walking, will help keep joints flexible. If you are overweight, losing weight can help reduce the stress on your weight-bearing joints. Devices such as canes and walkers may help your mobility and reduce your chance of falls or injuries.
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