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Knuckle pain and swelling. Knuckle Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Strategies

What are the common causes of knuckle pain. How can knuckle pain be effectively treated. What preventive measures can be taken to avoid knuckle pain. What role does arthritis play in knuckle discomfort. How does tendonitis affect knuckle health. When should you seek medical attention for knuckle pain. What lifestyle changes can help manage knuckle pain.

Understanding the Anatomy of Knuckles and Their Function

Knuckles are the joints that connect the bones in our fingers and toes. They play a crucial role in hand mobility and dexterity. These joints allow us to bend, straighten, and move our fingers in various directions, enabling us to perform a wide range of tasks, from gripping objects to typing on a keyboard.

The knuckles are composed of several key components:

  • Bones: The metacarpal bones of the hand and the phalanges of the fingers
  • Cartilage: A smooth, elastic tissue that covers the ends of the bones
  • Ligaments: Tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones
  • Tendons: Strong, cord-like structures that attach muscles to bones
  • Synovial fluid: A lubricating fluid that reduces friction between joint surfaces

When any of these components are damaged or inflamed, it can lead to knuckle pain and discomfort. Understanding the anatomy of knuckles is essential for recognizing potential issues and seeking appropriate treatment.

Common Causes of Knuckle Pain and Swelling

Knuckle pain can be caused by various factors, ranging from minor injuries to chronic conditions. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons for knuckle pain and swelling:

Arthritis: The Leading Cause of Knuckle Discomfort

Arthritis is the most prevalent cause of knuckle pain. This inflammatory condition affects the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are several types of arthritis that can impact the knuckles:

  • Osteoarthritis: Caused by wear and tear of the joint cartilage
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that attacks the joints
  • Psoriatic arthritis: Associated with psoriasis, causing joint inflammation
  • Gout: A form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystal buildup in joints

Can arthritis be reversed? While arthritis cannot be completely reversed, its symptoms can be managed through various treatments and lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis and intervention can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

Injuries and Trauma to the Knuckles

Acute injuries can cause immediate pain and swelling in the knuckles. Common types of knuckle injuries include:

  • Sprains: Stretching or tearing of ligaments
  • Strains: Overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons
  • Fractures: Broken bones in the fingers or hand
  • Dislocations: Joints that have been forced out of their normal position

Is it possible to differentiate between a sprain and a fracture without medical imaging? While some symptoms may overlap, there are certain signs that can help distinguish between a sprain and a fracture. Fractures often cause more severe pain, visible deformity, and inability to move the affected finger. However, a proper medical examination, including X-rays, is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Tendonitis and Its Impact on Knuckle Health

Tendonitis is the inflammation of tendons, which are the fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. When tendons around the knuckles become irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain and discomfort. Repetitive motions or overuse of the hands are common causes of tendonitis in the knuckles.

How long does it take for tendonitis to heal? The recovery time for tendonitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks with proper rest and care, while more severe cases can take several months to heal completely.

Diagnostic Approaches for Knuckle Pain

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of knuckle pain. Healthcare providers use various methods to determine the underlying cause:

  1. Physical examination: Assessing the appearance, range of motion, and tenderness of the knuckles
  2. Medical history review: Understanding the patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous injuries or conditions
  3. Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the internal structures of the hand
  4. Blood tests: To check for markers of inflammation or specific conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
  5. Joint fluid analysis: In some cases, a sample of synovial fluid may be extracted and analyzed

What specific tests are used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis in the knuckles? Rheumatoid arthritis is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, blood tests (such as rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies), and imaging studies. X-rays can show joint damage characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis, while ultrasound or MRI can detect early signs of inflammation.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Knuckle Pain Relief

Treatment for knuckle pain varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Here are some common approaches:

Conservative Management Techniques

For mild to moderate knuckle pain, conservative treatments are often the first line of defense:

  • Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain
  • Ice therapy: Applying cold packs to reduce swelling and numb pain
  • Heat therapy: Using warm compresses to improve circulation and relax muscles
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Topical treatments: Creams or gels containing pain-relieving ingredients

How often should ice be applied to swollen knuckles? For acute injuries or flare-ups, ice can be applied for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48 hours. After this initial period, alternating between ice and heat therapy may be more beneficial.

Medications for Managing Knuckle Pain

In cases where over-the-counter medications are insufficient, healthcare providers may prescribe:

  • Prescription-strength NSAIDs
  • Corticosteroids: Oral or injectable to reduce inflammation
  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): For conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
  • Biologic response modifiers: Advanced treatments for autoimmune-related arthritis

Are there any natural alternatives to prescription medications for knuckle pain? While natural remedies should not replace medical treatment, some people find relief from supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, or herbal remedies like turmeric. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing knuckle pain and improving hand function. A physical therapist may recommend:

  • Range of motion exercises to maintain flexibility
  • Strengthening exercises for the hands and fingers
  • Manual therapy techniques to improve joint mobility
  • Ultrasound or electrical stimulation for pain relief
  • Education on proper ergonomics and joint protection

How long does it typically take to see improvements with physical therapy for knuckle pain? The timeline for improvement varies depending on the individual and the underlying condition. Some patients may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent therapy to achieve significant results.

Surgical Interventions for Severe Knuckle Conditions

In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective or the condition is severe, surgical options may be considered:

  • Joint replacement: Replacing damaged joints with artificial implants
  • Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to repair or remove damaged tissue
  • Tendon repair or transfer: Fixing damaged tendons or rerouting healthy tendons
  • Synovectomy: Removing inflamed joint lining in rheumatoid arthritis

What is the recovery time after knuckle joint replacement surgery? Recovery time varies but typically involves several weeks of restricted activity followed by months of rehabilitation. Full recovery and return to normal activities can take 3-6 months, depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s overall health.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes for Healthy Knuckles

Preventing knuckle pain and maintaining joint health involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and proactive care:

Exercise and Hand Strengthening Techniques

Regular exercise can help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting the knuckles. Some beneficial exercises include:

  • Finger flexion and extension exercises
  • Wrist rotations and stretches
  • Grip strengthening exercises using stress balls or hand grippers
  • Thumb opposition exercises

How often should hand exercises be performed for optimal joint health? For general maintenance, performing hand exercises 2-3 times per week is beneficial. However, individuals with specific conditions should follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations, which may involve more frequent exercises.

Ergonomic Considerations for Daily Activities

Proper ergonomics can significantly reduce stress on the knuckles during daily activities:

  • Using ergonomic keyboards and mouse devices
  • Maintaining proper posture while working or using devices
  • Taking regular breaks during repetitive hand tasks
  • Using tools with padded handles to reduce pressure on joints

What are some signs that your workspace may be contributing to knuckle pain? If you experience increased pain or discomfort during or after work, notice stiffness in your hands, or feel the need to frequently stretch or massage your hands, it may indicate that your workspace ergonomics need improvement.

Nutritional Support for Joint Health

A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can support overall joint health:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
  • Vitamin C: Important for collagen production and found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens
  • Vitamin D and calcium: Essential for bone health and found in dairy products, fortified foods, and sunlight exposure
  • Antioxidants: Present in colorful fruits and vegetables, helping to reduce inflammation

Can dietary changes alone alleviate knuckle pain? While a healthy diet can support joint health and potentially reduce inflammation, it’s unlikely to completely alleviate knuckle pain caused by underlying conditions. Dietary changes should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medical care and lifestyle modifications.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Knuckle Pain

While some knuckle pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

  • Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments
  • Visible deformity or misalignment of the knuckles
  • Inability to move or bend the fingers
  • Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever
  • Pain accompanied by other systemic symptoms like fatigue or unexplained weight loss

How can you differentiate between normal joint stiffness and a more serious condition? Normal joint stiffness typically improves with movement and doesn’t severely limit function. If stiffness is persistent, worsens over time, or is accompanied by significant pain or swelling, it may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical evaluation.

In conclusion, understanding the causes, treatments, and prevention strategies for knuckle pain is essential for maintaining hand health and function. By recognizing symptoms early, seeking appropriate medical care, and implementing lifestyle changes, individuals can effectively manage knuckle pain and improve their quality of life. Remember that while self-care measures are important, persistent or severe knuckle pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Knuckle Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Knuckle Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

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Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M. D. — By Ali Kimbrel — Updated on August 1, 2018

Overview

Knuckle pain can occur in any or all fingers. It can be very uncomfortable and make everyday tasks more difficult.

Knowing the cause of knuckle pain can help you find methods of pain relief so you are able to do the things you’re used to doing.

Knuckle pain can feel like stiffness in the joints, making it difficult to move or bend your fingers. You might experience pain when moving these joints. The pain may be accompanied by swelling and redness. Some people experience a dull aching pain, even when not using their hands.

The most common cause of knuckle pain is arthritis. Arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation of the joints, including the knuckles. This inflammation can result in pain, stiffness, and swelling.

A person with arthritis usually feels pain with active use of their hands followed by a dull ache afterward.

Other causes may be:

  • Injury. Any type of injury, such as a dislocation, that causes a lot of pain should be treated immediately.
  • Tendonitis. Tendonitis is a swelling of the stretchy bands that help your fingers to move. It causes pain around a joint.
  • Mixed connective tissue disease. Joint pain in the hands is one of the early symptoms of mixed connective tissue disease.
  • Scleroderma. Also known as systemic sclerosis, scleroderma can cause joint pain, swelling, and limited movement of the fingers.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis. This is a common connective tissue disorder that can affect the knuckles.
  • Gout. Although uncommon, gout can result in pain and swelling of the knuckle.
  • Infection. An infection can also cause pain and swelling in the knuckle.

There’s no one treatment for relieving knuckle pain. Consult with your doctor about pain relief techniques such as:

  • Ice. Applying ice to sore knuckles can help reduce swelling and pain.
  • Medication. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help ease pain.
  • Vitamin C. A 2017 study suggests that vitamin C may reduce pain in joints.
  • Surgery. In severe cases, surgery to repair the damage in the joints of the knuckles may be necessary, but this isn’t common.

Taking care of your joints can help to prevent future knuckle pain. This includes:

  • Exercise. Proper exercise can ensure your hands are strong and resilient.
  • Protection. Wear gloves when appropriate to protect your knuckles.
  • Proper nutrition. Diets rich in calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin C can help keep your joints healthy.

Knuckle pain often doesn’t have an easy fix. Arthritis, the most common cause of knuckle pain, is a chronic condition that can be managed but not cured.

Taking care of your joints and treating the symptoms of knuckle pain can help to reduce its effect on your daily life.

Last medically reviewed on July 31, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Carr A, et al. (2017). The role of vitamin C in the treatment of pain: New insights. DOI:
    10.1186/s12967-017-1179-7
  • Joint disorders. (2018).
    medlineplus.gov/jointdisorders.html
  • Joint health and care: Prevention, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. (2009).
    medlineplus.gov/magazine/issues/spring09/articles/spring09pg14.html
  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Mixed connective tissue disease.
    mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mixed-connective-tissue-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20375147
  • Scleroderma symptoms. (n.d.).
    hopkinsmedicine. org/healthlibrary/conditions/adult/arthritis_and_other_rheumatic_diseases/scleroderma_symptoms_22,sclerodermasymptoms

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Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M.D. — By Ali Kimbrel — Updated on August 1, 2018

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Non-arthritis causes of swollen, painful finger joints

Arthritis is a common cause of finger swelling, but other conditions — such as injuries, preeclampsia, and trauma — can also cause swelling, inflammation, and pain in the fingers and knuckles.

Finger swelling can happen when inflammation or fluid accumulates in the tissues or joints of one or all of the fingers. A person may lose some mobility and notice that their fingers are stiffer and more tender than usual.

Both minor and more severe infections and conditions can cause varying degrees of swelling in the fingers. If someone experiences finger swelling along with pain, heat, and flushing, they should seek urgent medical advice.

Read on to learn more about some potential causes of finger joint swelling that are not arthritis, accompanying symptoms, and treatment options.

During hot weather, the blood vessels dilate. This makes it possible for more blood to flow through the skin, which cools it down as it loses heat to the air. When this happens, people may notice their fingers and feet swelling.

Symptoms

Generally, when someone experiences heat edema, their skin is shinier and stretched around the swollen area. They may also feel a tightness in their fingers when picking up cups and other objects.

Treatment

To reduce heat edema, people should try to move into the shade. They should also ensure that they eat and drink enough during the day.

When a person exercises, they feel hotter. To cool down, the body pushes the blood closer to the surface of the skin to dissipate the heat. When this happens, a person may notice swelling in their hands, fingers, and feet.

However, finger swelling is sometimes a symptom of a more serious condition called hyponatremia. Exercise-related hyponatremia occurs when blood sodium concentration drops to a dangerous level because a person is exercising and drinking too much water without replacing lost electrolytes.

Symptoms

The early stages of hyponatremia may present with puffiness and swelling in the hands and feet. If a person has hyponatremia, they require urgent medical attention.

Some other symptoms of hyponatremia include:

  • confusion
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • seizures
  • coma

Treatment

Finger swelling from exercising usually goes down when a person takes a break or ends their workout.

Treatment for hyponatremia varies depending on how low a person’s blood sodium levels are. Some people may need to stop drinking until they urinate, whereas others may need intravenous (IV) saline.

When blood sodium levels are severely low, some people may need hospital admission for close monitoring and frequent blood work. This is because hyponatremia requires very careful correction. However, if correction occurs too quickly, some people can become sicker, and this can be life threatening.

Common causes of hand and finger injuries include:

  • falls
  • sports
  • catching fingers in machines
  • thermal burns
  • chemical burns

When a person hurts their hand or fingers, they usually experience pain and swelling and lose finger mobility for a while.

If the damage is particularly severe, a person may later develop complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). CRPS occurs when the body’s inflammatory response to the injury is too high.

Symptoms

Some CRPS symptoms include:

  • stiffness
  • pain
  • swelling
  • changes in skin color

Treatment

When a person injures their finger, immediate treatment usually includes:

  • taking over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications
  • taking OTC pain relief medications
  • taping the finger to restrict movement

If stiffness develops, the person may need to perform finger exercises and continue to take anti-inflammatory medications.

Hand and finger infections are common in people who work on farms and building sites. Staphylococcus aureus is the most prevalent bacterial hand infection and is responsible for 80% of cases.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the most common viral infection, whereas Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton species tend to cause most fungal infections.

Symptoms

Depending on where the infection is, a person could experience:

  • pain
  • heat around the swelling
  • skin darkening
  • abscess
  • loss of finger function

A person may also experience systemic infections, which cause symptoms such as fever and chills. This may be more likely if there is joint involvement of the infection.

Treatment

Antibiotics can treat bacterial infections. HSV could resolve on its own, but a doctor may recommend antiviral treatment if it does not. Depending on how severe a fungal infection is, a doctor usually prescribes topical antifungal medications to apply to the affected area before considering oral medication.

Some swelling in the fingers is normal during pregnancy. However, if swelling occurs rapidly and with other symptoms, a person should contact a doctor immediately.

In the last trimester of pregnancy, some people experience preeclampsia. When this happens, blood pressure and swelling suddenly increase, which can be dangerous for both the parent and the fetus.

Symptoms

When a person has preeclampsia, they may experience:

  • swelling in the fingers, hands, and feet
  • a persistent headache
  • blurry vision
  • difficulty breathing

Learn more about preeclampsia.

Treatment

When preeclampsia is mild, a doctor usually watches the person closely until they give birth. During this time, the doctor may test their blood and urine and monitor the fetus with an ultrasound.

In severe cases of preeclampsia, the individual may receive IV medication to control their blood pressure and prevent seizures.

When someone has carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, which causes pain in the hands and fingers. In most cases, people report that their fingers feel swollen but that they cannot actually see any swelling.

Symptoms

Some other symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • numbness in the index and middle fingers
  • tingling during the day and night
  • difficulty grasping objects
  • weakness

Treatment

A doctor may recommend the following carpal tunnel treatments:

  • splinting
  • avoiding activities that trigger pain
  • taking OTC pain relief medications
  • trying alternative therapies, such as acupuncture
  • undergoing surgery

Learn more about carpal tunnel syndrome.

Bursitis occurs when the bursa inflames. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that sit between bones, tendons, and muscles. Bursitis can develop anywhere in the body, including the fingers, but common areas of inflammation tend to be in the hips, elbows, and knees.

When someone overuses their joints, it can lead to bursitis.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of bursitis include:

  • pain
  • tenderness around joint
  • reduced joint mobility
  • swelling and skin darkening

Treatment

Treatment options for non-infectious bursitis in the finger include:

  • resting the area
  • icing the area
  • taking OTC anti-inflammatory and pain relief medications
  • taping up the finger to reduce movement

Learn more about bursitis.

Scleroderma means hard skin. It is an autoimmune condition that affects the skin and underlying connective tissue. It can also sometimes lead to multi-organ involvement.

Symptoms

When a person has this condition, they may notice their skin becoming stiff and swollen around the finger joints.

Some other symptoms of localized scleroderma include:

  • pale fingers
  • finger joint pain
  • taut and shiny skin where there is swelling
  • immobile fingers

Treatment

There is currently no cure for scleroderma, but doctors can treat hardened skin and inflammation using corticosteroids.

Learn more about scleroderma.

Some other potential causes of finger swelling include:

  • mallet finger
  • nailbed injuries
  • trigger finger
  • Dupuytren’s contracture
  • cysts
  • tumors

People typically experience pain and swelling in the fingers after a sprain or injury. If the swelling does not show any signs of reducing after a few days, a person should contact a doctor — especially if the area feels hot.

Sometimes, finger swelling is a symptom of a more serious condition, such as preeclampsia or scleroderma. In these cases, a person usually experiences other symptoms, such as headaches and pale fingers, respectively.

Finger swelling has various causes. Injuries, physical activities, and environmental factors such as hot weather can all cause finger swelling. Some rare autoimmune conditions, such as localized scleroderma, can also present with finger joint swelling.

If a person is pregnant and their fingers swell rapidly, they should contact a doctor to rule out preeclampsia.

Sore and swollen joints: causes and treatment

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Orthopedist-traumatologist

Joints are a complex bone and cartilage structure that takes on the entire body weight. Small and large joints perform a motor function and regularly experience physical stress. Pain and swelling of the joints – a reaction to internal or external factors, which results in a restriction of movement, a change in shape. If there is swelling and pain in the joints, regardless of localization, you should consult a doctor to avoid severe, irreversible consequences.

Causes of swollen joints

The basis of the formation of joint edema is almost always an inflammatory process. Depending on the boundaries of the pathological focus, swelling of the joints can be general or local. According to the course of the process, acute and chronic edema are distinguished. Of the common causes of edema formation, there are:

  • arthritis;

  • arthrosis;

  • bursitis;

  • osteoarthritis;

  • rheumatoid arthritis;

  • gout;

  • osteochondritis occurring with cartilage necrosis;

  • injuries;

  • intense sports activities;

  • prolonged execution of the same type of movements;

  • insufficient physical activity;

  • infectious diseases;

  • disorders of the functions of the heart and blood vessels;

  • malnutrition;

  • age-related changes;

  • neurological problems.

In order to develop a therapeutic program, it is first necessary to determine the cause of joint swelling. Without finding out the root cause, it is impossible to achieve a stable therapeutic effect.

What to do if the joints on the hand are swollen

Swelling of the hand joints quite often occurs against the background of degenerative-dystrophic changes. In the absence of pain, patients present characteristic complaints:

  • swelling followed by stiffness of the joints of the fingers;

  • redness of the skin over affected tissues;

  • feeling of pulsation;

  • discomfort in surrounding muscles;

  • appearance of fluid in local tissues.

After a thorough examination, all forces are directed to the elimination of the root cause. Glucocorticosteroids, drugs with chondroprotective, anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxant effects are prescribed. Thanks to them, degenerative processes are slowed down, inflammation symptoms are stopped. Be sure to use B vitamins.

A separate place is occupied by the use of traditional medicine, which helps to alleviate the patient’s condition. For this purpose, it is effective to apply compresses, perform local baths, and apply ointments based on medicinal plants.

Pronounced decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect is achieved with various physiotherapy procedures:

  • shock wave therapy;

  • electrophoresis;

  • paraffin therapy;

  • ozocerite applications;

  • mud wraps;

  • warm-ups.

All active therapeutic manipulations are carried out after the elimination of signs of the inflammatory process.

Swelling of the joints of the legs

Swelling of the ankle joints, small joints of the foot brings inconvenience and unpleasant symptoms. Patients suffering from swelling of the joints of the legs deny themselves beautiful shoes, cannot wear clothes that open their knees. Quite often, the root cause of pathological changes is:

  • all kinds of injuries;

  • autoimmune diseases;

  • deforming articular pathologies;

  • degenerative processes;

  • problems of the cardiovascular system;

  • violations of kidney function;

  • severe allergic reactions.

Swelling of the knee joint is often observed with injuries of the meniscus and cruciate ligaments.

Conservative, minimally invasive surgical methods and physiotherapy are used to eliminate swelling of the leg joints. Of the medications, it is advisable to prescribe:

  • diuretics;

  • anticancer drugs;

  • glucocorticosteroids;

  • antibiotics;

  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;

  • antihistamines;

  • decongestant and cooling ointments, gels.

Minimally invasive procedures performed with minimal damage to the integrity of the skin and joint structure. A syringe is used to puncture the joint capsule and suck out the fluid from the joint cavity. The purpose of arthroscopy is to remove damaged bone and cartilage elements, restore the integrity of the cruciate ligaments.

Of the physiotherapeutic methods, a pronounced therapeutic effect is provided by:

At the stage of recovery, sports physical education is obligatory. The course of exercise therapy contributes to the normalization of motor activity, the restoration of metabolic processes in the affected joints and surrounding tissues. Massage stimulates the movement of lymph, activates local blood flow. Massage sessions eliminate signs of edema, relieve pain, restore trophism of soft, cartilaginous and articular tissues.

Diagnosis

To establish the root cause of joint swelling, a diagnostic examination plan is drawn up. The diagnostic program includes:

  1. X-ray – performed first. Pictures of the joints are taken in two projections. Affected joints are distinguished by the presence of a narrowing of the joint space, deformation of the edges, areas of destruction. The pictures show changes in the articular ends of the bones, foci of osteolysis.

  2. Sonography – is necessary to determine the degree of soft tissue damage. During the study, it is possible to identify the presence of free fluid, foci of pathological deposits of calcium salts, and hemorrhages. The method is the main one for establishing the root cause of swelling of the joints of the hands and feet.

  3. CT, MRI – visualize tumor processes, intra-articular injuries. Tomographic methods are used to differentiate the types of pathological changes – tumors, edema, degenerative pathologies of bone fragments.

  4. Puncture of the joint is mandatory in case of suspected synovitis, hemarthrosis. The resulting biomaterial is sent for bacteriological, cytological and immunological analysis. Based on the results obtained, it is possible to establish the nature of the pathological process.

  5. Laboratory tests – necessary to confirm or refute the rheumatoid, autoimmune, allergic nature of the disease.

Only the results of a comprehensive diagnostic examination give a complete picture of the nature of the underlying cause of joint swelling.

Which doctor to contact

If you or someone close to you has swollen joints of the elbows, fingers or toes, knees or ankles, you should definitely consult an orthopedist or rheumatologist. At the Center for Restorative Medicine in Naberezhnye Chelny, specialists with many years of experience in working with patients with joint problems conduct appointments. Detailed information about doctor’s qualifications can be found here.

After a thorough diagnosis, the doctor draws up a drug treatment program and prescribes a course of therapy aimed at restoring the functions of the joints. The patient is in the safe hands of experienced massage therapists, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation specialists. Careful classes with specialists guarantee a long-term therapeutic effect and normalization of the work of damaged joints.

Prices for medical procedures in the clinic can be viewed at the link. If you have any questions, please call +7 (8552) 78-09-35, +7 (953) 482-66-62. Attentive specialists will definitely give you a complete answer, write down a consultation with a doctor at a convenient time for you.

Other items

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a congenital defect associated with impaired joint formation, which in the future may cause dislocation or subluxation of the femoral head. It is believed that such a pathological condition occurs against the background of gynecological problems in the mother, a painful pregnancy, or a genetic predisposition to the occurrence of underdevelopment of the joint or its increased mobility in combination with connective tissue deficiency.

Baker’s cyst of the knee joint

Baker’s cyst is a benign tumor that protrudes outward in the area of ​​the popliteal fossa. Sometimes it is called a hernia or bursitis of the popliteal fossa.

Joint pain


Joint pain


Joint discomfort is common and is usually felt in the arms, legs, hips, knees, or spine. The pain may be constant or it may come and go. Sometimes the joint may feel stiff, aching, or sore. Some patients complain of a burning, throbbing, or “grinding” sensation. In addition, the joint may feel stiff in the morning, but it relaxes and feels better with movement and activity. However, excessive activity can increase pain.

Symptoms


Symptoms of joint pain range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include:

  • Swelling (edema)
  • Stiff or enlarged joint
  • Numbness
  • Cracking or clicking in the joints
  • Painful movement
  • Difficult to flex or extend the joint
  • Loss of movement
  • Red, hot and swollen joint

When to see a doctor?


If the pain is interfering with your normal daily life, it’s time to talk to your doctor about the problem. It is important to quickly diagnose the cause of pain and begin treatment to relieve pain and maintain healthy, functioning joints.

You should see a doctor if:

  • Pain accompanied by fever
  • Unexplained weight loss (5 kg or more)
  • Pain prevents you from walking normally

Reasons


The most common causes of chronic joint pain are:

  • Osteoarthritis occurs over time when cartilage, the protective cushion between bones, wears out. The joints become painful and stiff. Osteoarthritis develops slowly and usually occurs in middle age.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that causes swelling and pain in the joints. Joints are often deformed (most often fingers and wrists).
  • Gout is a painful condition in which body crystals accumulate in a joint, causing severe pain and swelling. It usually occurs on the big toe.
  • Bursitis occurs due to overexertion.