Joint Inflammation
Dealing with joint pain
The old adage "no pain, no gain" is true – at least as far as far as the body's healing processes are concerned. Repairing wear and tear on the joints entails the release of enzymes that aid the construction of new blood vessels and tissues. A person experiences the process as joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth – this is called joint inflammation.
If the injury is serious, however, then healing is never completed and joint inflammation persists. Likewise, if it is a chronic condition, such as arthritis, then inflammation will be a long-term condition. Sacroiliac joint inflammation, which is inflammation of joints in the lower back, is a very common source of chronic back pain.
Joint Inflammation Causes
Injuries result in many cases of joint inflammation. Other patients suffer inflammation from hormonal imbalances. In some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system gets confused and attacks joint cartilage. This autoimmune response continues until the cartilage is destroyed. Gout, which is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of inflammation, is due to the body's inability to process purine and uric acid.
Certain infections are also sometimes the cause. Lyme disease – a bacterial infection spread by deer ticks – can inflame one or many joints.
Treatment Options
Some patients get relief with use of nutritional supplements. Glucosamine is one of the most popular; it gradually rebuilds cartilage tissue. MSM and Omega 3 are also reputed to have some healing effects.
Dietary changes are beneficial for some patients. Gout sufferers, for example, need to limit their protein intake, alcohol consumption and consumption of purine-rich foods. Most joint inflammation sufferers benefit from drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, and consuming substantial daily doses of vitamins and minerals.
If inflammation is injury-related, then it is best treated with rest, ice applications and over-the-counter pain relievers throughout the first few days following the injury. Consult a doctor if your inflammation persists more than a week. You might need physical therapy and prescription-strength anti-inflammatories. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Arthrotec, Daypro and Voltaren, are the most common drugs of choice. Steroids are reserved for severe inflammation cases that do not respond to other treatments.