Common Causes of Joint Pain

Joint pain is a widespread issue that affects millions of people, making everyday activities challenging and diminishing the quality of life.

Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp, debilitating pain, understanding the root causes of joint discomfort is crucial in finding the right treatment.

At New Hampshire Regenerative Center, under the expert guidance of Dr. Thomas Pratt, we specialize in diagnosing and treating joint pain to help you regain your mobility and comfort.

Here are the common causes of joint pain and how you can take the first step toward relief.

Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of joint pain, particularly among older adults.

It is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time.

As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Symptoms: OA typically causes pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Other symptoms include stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and reduced range of motion.
Risk Factors: Age, obesity, previous joint injuries, and genetics can all increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium—the lining of the membranes that surround your joints.

This causes inflammation, which can lead to the destruction of cartilage and bone within the joint.

Symptoms: RA often causes joint pain that is accompanied by swelling, redness, and warmth around the joint. It typically affects the smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, and may cause symmetrical pain on both sides of the body.
Risk Factors: The exact cause of RA is unknown, but factors such as genetics, gender (women are more likely to develop RA), and smoking may increase the risk.

Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints.

Bursitis often occurs in joints that perform repetitive motions, such as the shoulders, elbows, and hips.

Symptoms: Bursitis causes joint pain and tenderness, particularly when moving the affected joint or pressing on it. The area may also be swollen and warm to the touch.
Risk Factors: Activities that involve repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on a joint, such as gardening, painting, or playing certain sports, can increase the risk of bursitis.

Gout
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing sudden and severe pain. It most commonly affects the big toe but can also occur in other joints, such as the knees, ankles, and wrists.

Symptoms: Gout attacks typically come on suddenly and cause intense pain, swelling, and redness in the affected joint. The pain is often described as excruciating and may be accompanied by fever.
Risk Factors: Gout is more common in men and can be triggered by factors such as a diet high in purines (found in red meat and seafood), alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications.

Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon, the thick, fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. Tendinitis can occur in any tendon, but it most commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees.

Symptoms: Tendinitis causes pain at the site of the tendon and surrounding area, particularly when moving the affected limb. The pain may be sharp or dull and can worsen with activity.
Risk Factors: Repetitive motions, sudden injuries, or activities that put stress on the tendons, such as tennis, golf, or carpentry, can lead to tendinitis.

Injuries
Joint injuries, such as sprains, strains, or fractures, can cause immediate and sometimes chronic pain. Even after an injury has healed, some individuals may experience lingering joint pain due to improper healing or the development of scar tissue.

Symptoms: Joint injuries often cause pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the extent of the injury.
Risk Factors: High-impact sports, accidents, or falls are common causes of joint injuries.

Regenerative Medicine for Joint Pain

Regenerative medicine is a cutting-edge field that focuses on repairing and regenerating damaged tissues in the body.

This approach harnesses the body’s natural healing processes to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and restore joint function.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves promotes healing and reduce inflammation.
Cell Therapy: Cell therapy helps to repair damaged tissues and reduce pain in the joints.

If you’re in Manchester or the surrounding areas and are struggling with joint pain, don’t wait to seek help.

Dr. Thomas Pratt at New Hampshire Regenerative Center is here to provide you with the expert care you need to find relief.

Call us today at (603) 945-1945 to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.