Patients and doctors often refer to pain in the joints and muscles as “arthritis”, but most arthritis is not. True arthritis affects the joints. The joints become red, warm, swollen and painful to move. They are usually not serious and will disappear. They can be caused either by tension, viruses infections, unusual exertion or accidents or they may not have a clear cause. They rarely indicate a serious condition.
Arthritis Types
There are more than 100 types of arthritis and other rheumatism. The most common are osteoarthritis (rheumatoid), gout, and Spondylitis. Osteoarthritis, which is often not serious, usually occurs in later years and causes knobby swelling at the end of the fingers. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that can cause stiffness and pain in the joints. It usually develops in middle to late life.
Gout is a condition that affects men mostly. It causes severe, sudden pain and swelling in one joint, often the big toe, ankle, or knee. Spondylitis is a condition that affects the back, joints of the low back, and can be suspected if you feel stiff in the morning, have difficulty touching your toes, or your back hurts for a long period. Myalgia and arthralgia are more common than true arthritis. This area is often not a common area for doctors to agree on the diagnosis terms. Two doctors might give you different names. Myalgia and arthralgia rarely progress to a more serious condition. Myalgia, arthritis, and arthralgia are more common than any other type of disease. Rarely does an arthritis patient or arthralgia patient need to see a doctor immediately. The problem can usually be treated at home.
Emergency
There are four types of emergency: (1) infection, (2) nerve injury, (3) fractures close to a joint, and (4) Gout. If the joint is not taken care of, severe damage can occur. In the fourth case, the pain is so severe that immediate medical attention is required. If you have symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or persistent pain for more than six weeks, it is important to consult a doctor.
For joint and muscle pain, both rest and exercise are important. Relax and gently stretch the affected areas. As often as possible, warm baths, massages, and stretching exercises should all be used. If you stand or walk on hard floors, sponge-soled shoes might be helpful. If you spend a lot time at a computer, a better light may be helpful to you relax.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help restore muscle tone. I recommend swimming, biking, and walking. You can buy ibuprofen and aspirin over-the-counter. They are safe to use in low to moderate amounts. These treatments can reduce the likelihood of joint and muscle pain.