Arthralgia (Joint Pain)

Arthralgia (joint pain) is a common symptom of many joint disorders. Classification: infectious (septic arthritis, Lyme, TB, viral), inflammatory (RA, spondyloarthritis, psoriatic, reactive, gout, pseudogout), degenerative (osteoarthritis), post-traumatic, mechanical/mechanical derangement, referred pain. Evaluation: history (onset, mono/poly, duration, morning stiffness, triggers); physical exam (swelling, warmth, ROM, tenderness); labs (CBC, ESR/CRP, uric acid, RF/ACPA, HLA-B27, cultures); imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI); joint aspiration if effusion. Treatment: symptomatic: acetaminophen; oral/topical NSAIDs; topical capsaicin/diclofenac; intra-articular corticosteroid injections; physical therapy; weight loss; rest/activity modification; orthotics/bracing. Etiologic: antibiotics for infection; DMARDs/biologics for inflammatory arthritis; urate-lowering therapy for gout; surgical repair/replacement for advanced degenerative/traumatic. Follow-up rheumatology/orthopedics/sports medicine/physical therapy.

Common Symptoms

Joint pain; swelling; stiffness; warmth; limited ROM; morning stiffness

Causes and Pathogenesis

Multiple etiologies: infectious/inflammatory/degenerative/metabolic/traumatic cause synovial/joint pain.

Treatment

Acetaminophen/NSAIDs; intra-articular steroids; PT; treat underlying disease

Preventive Measures

Weight control; low-impact exercise; joint protection; prompt treatment of infection.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Rheumatology/Orthopedics/Sports-medicine/Physical-therapy department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.