Common Treatments for Joint Inflammation

There are many reasons why a joint can be inflamed. Symptoms appear as a result of many physical problems including physical trauma, damage, infection, nutrient deficiency, or unnecessary chemical deposits.

It is very important to properly diagnose the main reason for joint inflammation in order to prevent further damage that can extend to the muscles or tissues surrounding the joint area.  Accurate diagnosis is critical in finding the right treatment that minimizes the uncomfortable symptoms or effects of the joint condition.

Basic Treatment for Joint Pain

The most basic treatment usually given for joint pain is hot or cold compresses, anti-inflammatory solutions or medications, and topical creams.  The hot compress helps improve blood circulation to the joint and the surrounding area, which makes the inflammation subside. The cold compress, on rare occasions, is given to patients as an external pain reliever when the redness or heat increases in the joint area, which caused the pain.

Topical creams and anti-inflammatory solutions are administered to reduce inflammation, both externally and internally.  Though these immediate treatments are available, it is still important to consult a doctor because joint pain can also be symptomatic of other problems.

On the other hand, joint degeneration or auto-immune conditions affecting joints are the most common reason for joint pain. 

Degeneration gradually damages the cartilage and causes connecting bones to rub together. This produces unbearable pain to the patient and serious inflammation to the joints’ surrounding areas. The condition can even lead to complications such as infection if left untreated.

The auto-immune condition affecting joints is even more serious because it can totally immobilize the patient or make simple movements impossible.  It is a condition where the immune system attacks the healthy and well functioning cells in the joint area and muscle groups in the surrounding area.  The pain it can give to the patient is unbearable and in worst cases it can even be fatal.

Preventing the Development of Gout

Another type of joint condition causing inflammation to the joint is gout.  Joint pain and inflammation are just two of the symptoms of gout, caused by high levels of uric acid deposits in the joint and surrounding area.  Symptoms usually start in the big toe, but they also can appear in other lower body parts and can last for days or even weeks.

The best way to prevent gout is by avoiding foods high in uric acid as well frequent exercise. Anti-inflammatory drugs are usually given to lessen symptoms if the condition is already present. If symptoms do not subside after a series of medication and treatment, consult with a specialist to determine other treatments. Also consider further diagnostic procedures to determine if there is an underlying condition triggering symptoms.

Inflammation of the joint, as mentioned above, can be caused by other illnesses as well, so always seek medical attention immediately to get the right diagnosis and applicable treatments.  When treating joint conditions, medicine follows a progression of treatments, beginning with lifestyle modification, medication, and surgical procedures for extreme or worse cases. Yet most of the time, medication and changes in lifestyle are enough to minimize the effects of joint conditions and delay their progression.