Joint pain - Human Antiaging Center

What is Joint Pain?

Joint pain is a very common complaint that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by aching, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion in one or more joints. Joint pain can range from mild to severe, and can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

There are many potential causes of joint pain. The most common include:

• Arthritis - inflammation and damage to the joints. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most prevalent types.
• Injuries - sprains, fractures, and dislocations can lead to acute and chronic joint pain.
• Overuse - repetitive movements and overexertion can irritate the joints.
• Infection - viruses, bacteria, and fungi can infect the joints and cause inflammation.
• Autoimmune disorders - diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis cause the immune system to attack the joints.

Some other factors that increase the risk of joint pain include age, excess weight, genetics, and repetitive motions. As we get older, our joints are more prone to wearing down and arthritis. Carrying extra pounds puts more stress on the joints, especially the knees, hips, and back. Some people may have a genetic predisposition for developing painful joint conditions. Jobs or hobbies that require repetitive bending, lifting, typing, etc. can irritate the joints over time.

Signs and Symptoms

• Aching, throbbing, or stabbing pain in a joint
• Swelling, redness, and warmth in the joint area
• Stiffness after periods of rest or upon waking up
• Decreased range of motion and flexibility
• Tenderness when pressure is applied to the joint
• Muscle weakness around the joint
• Crepitus - cracking or grinding sounds with joint movement

The most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, back, hands, shoulders, and neck. Joint pain can be limited to one joint or widespread. Flare-ups are common and joints may be more painful in the mornings or after activity.

Diagnosis and Treatment

An accurate diagnosis is important to determine the underlying cause of joint pain. A doctor will take a full medical history and conduct a physical exam. They may order imaging tests like x-rays, MRI, or CT scan to visualize the joint structures. Blood tests look for inflammatory markers and autoantibodies.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint mobility, slowing disease progression, and improving quality of life. Both medication and lifestyle approaches are used. Common treatments include:

• Pain relievers - acetaminophen, NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections
• Disease-modifying drugs for autoimmune arthritis
• Physical therapy to improve strength and range of motion
• Weight loss to reduce joint stress
• Assistive devices - canes, braces, splints
• Surgery - joint repair or replacement for severe joint damage

At Human Antiaging Center, we take an integrative approach to joint pain, evaluating hormone levels like estrogen, testosterone, cortisol. Hormone imbalances can contribute to inflammatory conditions like arthritis. We provide customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help restore optimal hormone levels and reduce joint inflammation and damage. Our patients report decreased stiffness, pain, and swelling after starting treatment. Contact us today to see how balancing your hormones could help your joint health!