When Should Someone Worry About Joint Pain?

Joint pain is a common problem, and there are many potential causes. However, some causes are more severe than others. In most cases, joint pain results from simple overuse or injury. This type of pain usually goes away with rest and home care. However, there are some cases when Hazlet joint pain can signify a more severe problem. 

Joint pain that lasts for more than a few days

When joint pain persists for more than a few days, it may be time to see a doctor. It is especially true if the pain is severe or interferes with daily activities. Additionally, joint pain that worsens over time or is accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or redness may indicate a more severe problem.

Joint pain that occurs with other symptoms

Joint pain alongside other symptoms like fever, rash, or weakness may be a sign of infection or autoimmune disease. If you experience these symptoms and joint pain, it is essential to see a doctor.

Joint pain that limits mobility

If joint pain makes it difficult to move or bearing weight is painful, this may be a sign of arthritis or another degenerative joint disease. These conditions can cause permanent damage to the joints if they are not treated, so it is vital to see a doctor if you are experiencing this type of pain.

Joint pain that is accompanied by numbness or tingling

Joint pain accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected limb may be a sign of nerve damage. This type of pain can indicate severe underlying conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis, so it is essential to seek medical attention at Garden State Pain & Orthopedics if you experience these symptoms. 

Joint pain that is severe or persistent

Joint pain that is severe or persistent may signify a serious underlying condition. If you experience this type of pain, it is essential to see a doctor so that the cause can be properly diagnosed and treated.

Now that you know when joint pain should be considered serious, you also need to know some of the common causes of joint pains:

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that can cause joint pain. There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that often occurs with age. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints.

Injury

Joint pain can also be caused by injury. It can include everything from a sprained ankle to a torn ACL. In most cases, joint pain from an injury will improve with rest and home care. However, more severe injuries may require medical treatment.

Infection

Joint pain can also be caused by infection. It is most common in the case of septic arthritis, which is a bacterial infection of the joints. Septic arthritis can be severe and requires immediate medical treatment.

Autoimmune disease

Joint pain can also be a symptom of autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions cause the body to attack healthy tissue, leading to inflammation and pain in the joints.

If you are worried about your joint pain or interfering with your daily activities, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. They will be able to diagnose and treat your joint pain properly.