FAQ: What is joint ache?
A: Joint pain is an aching and stiffness that can occur in any joint in the body. It may present as a chronic affliction as in the form of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, or may be temporary problem as in the case of an acute injury.
FAQ: What causes joint aches?
A: Causes of joint pain can be:
• Hormonal changes in the body- Women approaching menopause may experience many changes in their bodies due to the decline in the hormone production of estrogen. Estrogen at normal levels in the body is considered to have anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. When estrogen levels become depleted menopause joint aches can appear. Normal wear and tear on joints throughout the years may now be keenly apparent without the protection of estrogen.
• Autoimmune disorders- When the immune system receives confusing signals causing it to attack the body, long term inflammatory disorders may arise. Arthritis and lupus are two of these disorders and are sometimes difficult to treat.
• Poor nutrition- Certain vitamin deficiencies and consumption of toxins can significantly contribute to joint pain. Excess intake of animal proteins, animal fats, and processed foods and sugar all play a factor in contributing to joint aches.
• Obesity- Excess weight carried on a frame meant for someone much smaller induces extreme stress and tension on the joints. Over time, the joints tend to quickly degenerate and deteriorate as a result of bearing to much weight.
• Injuries- Joint aches can be felt acutely in the case of recent bodily injury or may manifest itself over the years as a result of old sports or accident injuries.
• Gout- When uric acid accumulates over time in middle aged or older men, it results in urate crystals that build up and aggravate the lining of the joint. Typically, only one joint is affected, but gout can affect as many as three joints at the same time.
• Infectious diseases- Chicken pox, mumps, shingles, hepatitis and rheumatic fever are all infectious diseases that can cause significant joint aches.
• Bone diseases- Osteoarthritis is a non-inflammatory bone disease that is a result of deterioration within the joint capsule. This may be a consequence of old injuries or abnormal wear and tear from constant repetitive occupational activity. Other types of bone diseases are Paget’s disease, sickle cell anemia and bone cancer.
FAQ: Is there any treatment for joint pain?
A: Other than joint replacement surgery for those suffering from osteoarthritis, joint pain cannot be cured but it can be effectively managed. The following are viable options in palliative treatment of joint pain:
Weight Loss
Our joints carry our weight and the development of joint pain> is strongly associated with excess bulk. Studies have shown that even moderate weight loss can have a considerable effect in relieving joint aches.
Dietary Changes
Stiff and aching joints can be abetted by significantly reducing consumption of animal fats and animal proteins, processed foods and saturated fats. Introducing foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines and flaxseed, can promote joint health.
Exercise
Non-impact workouts will keep the joints moving and lubricated which greatly aids in reducing pain and stiffness. Cycling, walking and swimming or all excellent aerobic activities that improve joint problems and address weight issues. Yoga and tai chi are isometric practices that can render relaxation, flexibility and strength to the joints.
