My knuckle is swollen. Knuckle Pain: Understanding Causes, Effective Treatments, and Prevention Strategies

18.07.202329.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the common causes of knuckle pain. How can knuckle pain be effectively treated. What strategies can be employed to prevent knuckle discomfort. How does arthritis affect the knuckles. When should medical attention be sought for knuckle pain.

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Common Causes of Knuckle Pain and Swelling

Knuckle pain can be a debilitating condition that affects daily activities and quality of life. Understanding the root causes is crucial for effective management and treatment. While arthritis is the most prevalent cause, several other factors can contribute to knuckle discomfort.

Arthritis: The Primary Culprit

Arthritis, a disease characterized by joint inflammation, is the leading cause of knuckle pain. It typically manifests as pain during hand use, followed by a persistent dull ache. The inflammation associated with arthritis can result in stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected joints.

Other Common Causes

Injury: Dislocations or other traumatic injuries can cause severe knuckle pain.
Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons that control finger movement.
Mixed connective tissue disease: Joint pain in the hands is often an early symptom.
Scleroderma: Also known as systemic sclerosis, it can lead to joint pain and limited finger movement.
Rheumatoid arthritis: A common connective tissue disorder affecting the knuckles.
Gout: Although less common, it can cause pain and swelling in the knuckles.
Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can result in knuckle pain and swelling.

Diagnosing Knuckle Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Determining the underlying cause of knuckle pain is essential for appropriate treatment. While mild discomfort may be manageable at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation.

Signs That Require Medical Attention

Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
Persistent swelling or redness
Limited range of motion in the fingers
Pain accompanied by fever or other systemic symptoms
Knuckle pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies

How do healthcare providers diagnose knuckle pain? Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and potentially imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for inflammatory markers or specific conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Knuckle Pain Relief

While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating knuckle pain, several strategies can provide relief and improve hand function. The most appropriate treatment plan depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.

Conservative Treatment Options

Ice therapy: Applying ice to sore knuckles can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Over-the-counter medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Vitamin C supplementation: Recent studies suggest that vitamin C may help reduce joint pain.
Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain can promote healing.
Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can improve joint mobility and strength.

Advanced Treatment Options

For more severe cases or when conservative measures fail to provide relief, healthcare providers may recommend:

Prescription medications: These may include stronger pain relievers or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Corticosteroid injections: These can provide targeted relief for inflammation and pain.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair joint damage or address underlying structural issues.

Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Healthy Knuckles

While not all causes of knuckle pain are preventable, adopting certain lifestyle habits can help maintain joint health and reduce the risk of future discomfort.

Exercise and Strengthening

Regular hand exercises can help maintain flexibility and strength in the fingers and knuckles. How can one incorporate hand exercises into their daily routine? Simple activities like squeezing a stress ball, finger extensions, or practicing finger yoga can be effective. It’s important to start gently and gradually increase intensity to avoid overexertion.

Protective Measures

Wearing gloves during activities that may stress the hands, such as gardening or weightlifting, can help protect the knuckles from injury and excessive wear.

Nutritional Support

A balanced diet rich in nutrients that support joint health can play a crucial role in preventing knuckle pain. Which nutrients are particularly beneficial for joint health?

Calcium: Essential for bone strength and density
Vitamin D: Aids in calcium absorption and supports overall bone health
Vitamin C: May help reduce joint pain and supports collagen production
Omega-3 fatty acids: Possess anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit joint health

Understanding the Impact of Arthritis on Knuckle Health

As the most common cause of knuckle pain, arthritis deserves special attention. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the knuckles, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. In the knuckles, this can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. How does osteoarthritis specifically affect the knuckles? The breakdown of cartilage can cause the bones in the joint to rub against each other, leading to pain and inflammation. Over time, this may result in the formation of bone spurs and changes in the shape of the knuckle joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints, including the knuckles. This can result in inflammation, pain, and eventual joint deformity if left untreated. What are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis in the knuckles? Early symptoms often include morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, symmetrical joint pain (affecting the same joints on both hands), and swelling in the knuckle joints.

Psoriatic Arthritis

This form of arthritis is associated with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. Psoriatic arthritis can affect the knuckles, causing pain, swelling, and in some cases, changes in nail appearance. How does psoriatic arthritis differ from other forms of arthritis affecting the knuckles? One distinctive feature is the potential for “sausage-like” swelling of entire fingers, known as dactylitis, which is less common in other forms of arthritis.

Lifestyle Modifications for Managing Chronic Knuckle Pain

For individuals dealing with ongoing knuckle pain, particularly due to chronic conditions like arthritis, certain lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve quality of life and hand function.

Ergonomic Considerations

Adapting your environment and tools can help reduce stress on the knuckles during daily activities. What ergonomic changes can benefit those with knuckle pain?

Using ergonomic keyboards and mouse devices to reduce hand strain
Employing adaptive tools with larger handles for easier gripping
Arranging workspaces to minimize repetitive hand movements
Utilizing voice recognition software to reduce typing when possible

Stress Management

Chronic pain conditions can be exacerbated by stress. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can indirectly benefit knuckle health. How does stress affect joint pain, and what strategies can help manage it?

Stress can increase inflammation in the body, potentially worsening arthritis symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity can help manage stress levels and potentially reduce pain perception.

Sleep Hygiene

Quality sleep is crucial for overall health and can impact pain management. Poor sleep can increase sensitivity to pain and hinder the body’s natural healing processes. How can individuals with knuckle pain improve their sleep quality?

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
Creating a comfortable sleeping environment
Using supportive pillows to maintain proper hand positioning during sleep
Avoiding screens before bedtime to improve sleep onset

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Knuckle Pain

While conventional medical treatments form the cornerstone of knuckle pain management, some individuals find relief through alternative and complementary therapies. It’s important to note that these approaches should be discussed with a healthcare provider before implementation, especially for those with diagnosed medical conditions.

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help reduce pain and improve function in individuals with arthritis affecting the hands. How might acupuncture benefit those with knuckle pain? The therapy is thought to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals, and may help modulate the perception of pain.

Massage Therapy

Gentle massage of the hands and fingers can help improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and potentially alleviate pain in the knuckles. What types of massage are most beneficial for knuckle pain? Techniques such as gentle kneading, circular motions around the joints, and light stretching of the fingers can be helpful. However, it’s crucial to avoid aggressive manipulation, especially during flare-ups or in cases of acute injury.

Herbal Supplements

Some individuals turn to herbal remedies to manage joint pain and inflammation. While scientific evidence varies, certain herbs have shown potential benefits in managing arthritis symptoms. Which herbal supplements are commonly used for joint health?

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties
Ginger: May help reduce joint pain and inflammation
Boswellia: Also known as Indian frankincense, it may have anti-inflammatory effects
Devil’s Claw: Traditionally used for joint pain relief

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplement regimen, as these can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

The Role of Technology in Knuckle Pain Management

Advancements in technology have opened up new avenues for managing and monitoring knuckle pain. From wearable devices to smartphone apps, these tools can provide valuable insights and support for individuals dealing with chronic joint issues.

Wearable Devices

Specialized wearable devices can track hand movements, measure grip strength, and even provide therapeutic interventions. How do these devices benefit those with knuckle pain? Some wearables offer vibration therapy or gentle electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and improve circulation. Others focus on data collection, allowing users and their healthcare providers to monitor progress and identify patterns in pain occurrence.

Smartphone Applications

A variety of smartphone apps are available to help individuals manage their joint health. These may include:

Pain tracking apps: Allow users to log pain levels, triggers, and medication effectiveness
Exercise guide apps: Provide tailored hand exercises and stretches
Meditation apps: Offer guided sessions for stress reduction and pain management
Nutrition apps: Help users maintain a joint-healthy diet

Telemedicine Platforms

The rise of telemedicine has made it easier for individuals with mobility issues to consult with healthcare providers. How can telemedicine benefit those with knuckle pain? It allows for regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and even physical therapy sessions without the need for in-person visits, which can be particularly beneficial for those with severe joint pain or limited mobility.

As research continues and technology evolves, new and innovative approaches to managing knuckle pain are likely to emerge. Staying informed about these developments and working closely with healthcare providers can help individuals find the most effective strategies for maintaining hand health and function.

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

Share this article

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

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.

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:

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

Share this article

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

How to avoid knee surgery

This happened in 1998. My friend Lyudmila, an elegant beautiful woman, always wore fashionable shoes with high heels. On that day, she sat down with her dog without taking off her dress shoes. The movement was awkward. Squatting in heels is hard. There was excessive twisting of the leg at the time of the squat. A sharp pain in her knee made her scream. The pain in the joint was acute, the joint was swollen, there were problems with walking.

The next day MRI of the knee showed damage to the meniscus. To be precise, a rupture (stratification) of the posterior horn of the meniscus. That’s all they could find on the MRI.

Orthopedic consultations followed, leaving no choice. All orthopedists unanimously assured Lyudmila that it was impossible to do without surgical removal of the meniscus. The woman was extremely upset. It was not only the winter holidays at the ski resort that broke down. The foreseeable future was called into question: a defective operated joint without a meniscus, the period of postoperative rehabilitation, possible problems with walking after the operation, the inability to continue wearing fashion shoes with heels, and much more. Lyudmila is a doctor by profession and, like no one else, she perfectly understood the risks and subsequent problems that an operative (surgical) intervention might entail. Surgeons do not always inform the patient about the possible consequences, which are many.

Who in the clinic “Meddiagnostika” treats pain in the back, spine and joints

Gongalsky Vladimir Vladimirovich

Doctor of Medical Sciences, orthopedic traumatologist, neurologist, vertebroneurologist

Maksimov Grigory Alexandrovich

Doctor of neurology ologist, candidate of medical sciences

Kopyl Evgeniy Gennadievich

Orthopedist-traumatologist, vertebrologist

Our diagnostic equipment

MRI device Toshiba Vantage Elan 1. 5 tesla

Ultrasound machine Philips AFFINITY 50

X-ray complex “Radspeed” SHIMADZU

Ultrasound machine GE LOGIQ F8

1978 since the establishment by us on on the basis of the neurological department of the Central City Clinical Hospital in Kiev, the first clinic in the USSR for vertebroneurology (vertebrology).

What am I doing here?

It’s very simple. We worked with Lyudmila in the same hospital. She decided to “cry” to me about what had happened. I suggested testing the joint.

It turned out that there was hemarthrosis – accumulation of blood in the joint. The joint was tense and painful on palpation. X-ray of the joint did not reveal any special pathology. Ultrasound of the joint showed signs of edema and infringement of the synovial membrane. The most important finds were waiting for me at the so-called. physical (clinical) examination of the joint. An injury to the ligaments of the knee was found. But, the most important thing in this story was that the motor function of the joint was preserved. In other words, the “torn” meniscus did not block the joint, its mobility was not impaired. This gave a chance to treat the knee without surgery.

What did I do?

I punctured the joint, pumped out blood from it. The joint immediately became less tense and painful. With a couple of movements, he released the synovial membrane of the knee and injected an anti-inflammatory drug into the joint. Fixed the knee and sclerosed the torn ligament.

The next few days were devoted to rehabilitation, including work with knee ligaments, swelling of the joint capsule, inflammation of the synovial membrane … We had 5 days before Lyudmila’s departure. We have used them productively.

As a result, Ludmila chose skiing instead of the proposed emergency surgery. With residual pain in her knee, she drove to a mountain resort and risked skiing. She took into account the recommendations given to her on the nature of the load on the joint. Fortunately, the biomechanics of the knee joint is quite simple and she managed not to overload the joint. The pain by that time had become much less and gradually disappeared. Dosed load effectively removes residual pain. Fear and fear for the knee quickly disappeared. Lyudmila skied fully for a week. There were no problems with walking after riding.
19 years have passed. Every year, Lyudmila continues to ski. Thank God, I never got to the surgeon.

Why am I telling this story?

Only because in the vast majority of such cases, joint surgery can be avoided.

The most common cause of joint pain is soft tissue pathology, which is not rational to treat surgically. It is always better to find the cause of the pain and eliminate it pointwise than to try to surgically cut out what caught your eye during the MRI. In this case, “meniscus tear”. Of course, there are diseases that require surgical treatment. For example, a complete rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee is a 100% indication for its operative (surgical) restoration.

NB! Not a tear (!), as they often write during an MRI examination, calling it a “ligament rupture”. And a real rupture with a clinical sign of insolvency of the cruciate ligament – the so-called. a symptom of a “drawer” (when the ligament does not hold the articular surfaces of the knee).

A complete tear of the meniscus, a fragment of which freely “dangles” in the knee and “wedges” and blocks the knee, of course, needs to be removed. But, if it is possible to save the meniscus, it is advisable to do so. You should always take the chance to recover without surgery. Surgery is a last resort when non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted.

Another example. My patient with an acute injury to the medial collateral ligament of the knee.

“medial” – located on the inner surface.

Refused the operation. Although the joint showed signs of lateral instability, which indicated the failure of this ligament, which did not hold the joint. This was a fairly strong indication for surgical repair of the ligament. During the examination, it turned out that the ligaments were not completely torn, but torn and slightly stretched, which gave hypermobility.

Decided to be treated without surgery. In the end, the situation is not vital. It’s never too late to go under the knife if it doesn’t work.

The joint was taped (immobilized), sclerosing therapy. Gave peace. Special physiotherapy procedures were prescribed. Pathological mobility in the joint went away after a few weeks. It’s been 7 years. Until now, the function of the joint is preserved in full, there is no instability and pain. The patient is pleased that he did not agree to “urgent” surgical care.

More than 40 years of experience in medicine convinced me that in most cases it is possible to cure a patient with joint or spinal pain without surgery. Exclusively due to simple, but very effective procedures.

Today, when there are no problems with obtaining medical information, it is easy to get statistics on various types of treatment for joint pain from the Internet. Most complaints of joint pain are not related to bone, but to soft tissues. Therefore, one should never rush into an operation on a joint, at least until after hearing a few opinions. Explore enough! Gather some opinions. Have your doctor review the test results and test your joint. Operation is needed only for absolute indications. For example, with a complete (!) rupture of the ligaments, and not with their tear. With a gross rupture of the meniscus, when it impedes movement in the joint, and not when it is stratified … In each case, an individual analysis is needed, and not the removal of what is first striking.

Pain, as practice shows, also is not an absolute indication for surgery. Always look for the cause of the pain. For example, pain in the knee may be caused by at least one of the 12 to 14 soft tissue structures in that knee that can be treated fairly effectively non-surgically.

Pain in the knee can be reflected, associated with radicular pathology and with the spine. Pain in the knee often occurs with pathology of the hip joint. If you look wider, and not just at the stratified meniscus, then, as a rule, it is possible to find the real cause of the pain.

Each specific case of pain must be analyzed from the point of view of not only orthopedics, but also neurology with rheumatology. The training of such a specialist requires a lot of time, which, as the practice of the Meddiagnostika clinic has shown, takes years.

A dissected posterior horn of the meniscus that first appears on an MRI examination may be an incidental finding that has nothing to do with knee pain. As it happened with Lyudmila (see the beginning of the article).

By the way, a frank conversation with the radiologists of the Meddiagnostics Center gave unexpected results even for me. It turned out that the so-called rupture (dissection) of the posterior horn of the meniscus is detected in 8 out of 10 knees examined on MRI. Today, we do not regard this finding as a pathology that needs surgery. If carefully and search with understanding of the subject, as a rule, you can find another, real, cause of pain. Moreover, the meniscus is not innervated and does not hurt by itself.

It should also be understood that if the meniscus is removed, the joint will lose the extra cartilage padding between the main articular cartilages. The entire load in this case falls on the main cartilages of the articular surfaces of the knee. In the future, this can lead to rapid “wear” of cartilage and the development of arthrosis. That is what often happens. A fairly well-known medical fact: most people who have their meniscus removed end up with arthrosis of the knee joint.

And arthrosis is a disabling disease, in which you need to do expensive and unsafe arthroplasty (change your own for an artificial joint). Therefore, it is cheaper to prevent the development of arthrosis by determining the real cause of the pain and try to eliminate it without surgery. Don’t remove the meniscus.

Another question about the knee: surgical removal of a Baker’s cyst

A Baker’s cyst is perfectly treated without a knife. Moreover, during the operation, a part of the knee capsule is removed along with the synovial membrane. But such an operation does not remove the cause of the formation of a cyst – excessive production of synovial fluid in the knee.

Surgical removal of a Baker’s cyst permanently damages the joint capsule. It also significantly reduces the area of the synovial membrane, which produces synovial fluid (lubricant for the joint). This is a direct path to arthritis. Not to mention the fact that Baker’s cyst is arthritis (inflammation of the capsule), which has its own causes.

If the cause of inflammation in the joint is found and eliminated, then the Baker’s cyst can be quickly and effectively dealt with. To this end, the Meddiagnostics Center has developed effective standards for diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, surgical removal of a Baker’s cyst does not prevent the patient from recurring. Removal of a Baker’s cyst does not treat the underlying inflammation in the knee capsule. Recurrence of a Baker’s cyst after its surgical removal is not uncommon. Read more about Baker’s cyst .

The same situation with the shoulder and hip joints. For example, the shoulder joint has many soft tissue structures that can hurt. This is a joint capsule, several synovial bags, an abundance of muscles and much more.

All of these soft tissue masses of the shoulder can be tested clinically. There is absolutely no need to carry out, for example, diagnostic arthroscopy, since the cause of pain often lies not in the joint cavity, but paraarticularly (outside the joint capsule, outside). The diagnosis is established during a clinical examination and with hardware confirmation: X-ray (X-ray is mandatory and in some cases diagnostically more important than MRI). Also ultrasound of the joint. When, let me remind you, a clinical examination is a key step in establishing a diagnosis.

Despite the rapid development of diagnostic techniques, the clinical evaluation of joint function and dysfunction has not lost its relevance. Moreover, questioning and physical (manual and visual testing) is always a key diagnostic method, which is the key to diagnosis.

X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, laboratory tests are auxiliary methods that help the doctor to establish the final diagnosis.

MRI of the joints is a very informative method. But without clinical analysis, it can become a source of overdiagnosis. As it happened with Lyudmila (see above). But, MRI has an undeniable advantage. With its help, you can find a lot of unexpected things in the joint.

For example, the parents brought a 16 year old girl with chronic shoulder pain. Nothing can take the pain away. The function of the joint almost did not suffer. Disturbed by pain at rest, which intensified with movement. X-ray showed defiguration (violation of the shape) of the humerus. An MRI revealed a sarcoma (cancer) of the head of the humerus. Before us, she was treated for more than one year “for pain”, “for arthritis”, “for arthrosis”. Casuistic and very unpleasant case. But, it shows that it is necessary to be surveyed. The examination is not an additional income for the clinic, as some believe. Examination is the correct diagnosis and patient safety. And often – and his life. MRI in this case made it possible to assess not only the soft tissues of the joint, but also the condition of the bone, which was the key to making the diagnosis.

NB! An MRI examination for joint pain is only useful when combined with a clinical examination, questioning, and testing of the joint. It is the examination of the doctor that allows us to formulate the scope and nature of the examination. The MRI confirms (or doesn’t) the doctor’s clinical findings.
There are cases when when working with a joint, you can do without MRI. X-ray or X-ray + ultrasound is enough.

So, what is needed to make sure that joint pain can be cured without surgery?

Clinical analysis of the state of the joint, its function, after which – adequate hardware diagnostics. One MRI without clinical testing is not enough. Sometimes x-rays provide more information about the condition of the joint than MRI. For example, to determine the presence and stage of arthrosis of the knee joint.
Testing of the joint is necessary after a thorough history taking.
Additional examinations – X-ray, MRI, ultrasound are auxiliary for the doctor. The main thing is a clinical examination of the joint.
Gather a few opinions before going into surgery. Among them, as a rule, there may be one that will change the idea of the cause of pain in the joint. For example, joint pain due to arthritis (inflammation in the joint). There is nothing to operate on such a joint. You need to look for the cause of pain and inflammation.
The opinion of a doctor who is not operating is especially important. He definitely will not orient you to surgical intervention without good reasons.

The tactics of non-surgical management of patients with pathology of the soft tissues of the joints in the world is called “Musculoskeletal Medicine”.

In Europe, there are entire clinics and clinical departments that deal exclusively with the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal pathology (pathology of the musculoskeletal system). More often they do it without surgery. This tactic has been actively practiced at the Meddiagnostics Center since the early 1980s. Moreover, the Meddiagnostics Center has a powerful modern diagnostic base that solves any diagnostic problems with any segment of the musculoskeletal system. Whether it is any human joint or spine, muscles, ligaments, tendons, menisci, synovial membranes, vessels and nerves of the joints, and much more. Moreover, all diagnostics and treatment can be done without leaving the Center building.

Read

About treating knee pain
About the menisci of the knee .
About the collateral ligaments of the knee .
About the cruciate ligaments of the knee .
About the coronary ligaments of the knee .
About knee arthrosis .
About knee arthritis .
What to do to avoid knee surgery

Doctor of Medical Sciences, V.V. Gongalsky

Ukrainian Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine and Neurology
www.gongalsky.com.ua

Joint diseases in dogs: symptoms and treatment

At one point, the dog simply refuses activities, begins to avoid games and running. Later, lameness, drowsiness, apathy, loss of interest in walking are added. If treatment is not started in a timely manner, joint diseases in a dog will lead to serious consequences – up to paralysis. It is in the interests of pet owners to know what pathologies are typical for a particular breed, when to rush to the veterinarian, and what to do if the dog has joint problems.

Diseases of the joints in dogs: symptoms

There are two main and several indirect signs indicating pathologies in the joints of animals:

Low physical activity, uncharacteristic for the breed. A good example is a Labrador puppy. Calmness and phlegm in this case, most likely, will be caused by pain and discomfort than by the ideal upbringing and obedience of the baby. But the true cause of the behavior can be revealed only at the appointment with the veterinarian after the necessary examinations have been carried out.
Lameness – permanent or intermittent. Uncertain gait directly indicates problems with the joints of the animal and indicates the need to visit the veterinary clinic. Ignoring the fact of the disease during periods of normal activity will only aggravate the situation, especially with ACL ruptures.

It is also worth paying attention to the following – also indicating diseases of the joints in a dog – symptoms:

listless apathetic mood;
awkward movement;
slowness;
unnatural sitting and standing positions;
rear paw dragging;
crunches during flexion and extension of the knee joints;
edema, swelling;
whining or growling on touching the sore spot;

aggression, irritability;
reluctance to climb stairs;
refusal of activities during a walk;
poor appetite;
increased thirst;
shortness of breath;
temperature rise;
desire to constantly lie in one position.

Activity can change throughout the day and depend on mood, but dog owners should be wary of stiffness in the morning. If after waking up, the dog moves with difficulty, this is a bad sign. Later, the animal may “disperse” and the signs of malaise will become less pronounced. But the morning is always revealing.

Causes of diseased joints in dogs

Dog joints can get sick at any age. There are many reasons for this. Among the conditions and diagnoses leading to the development of joint diseases:

Injury, any kind of mechanical damage. Most often, injury occurs during games or sports training – during jumping, running. In case of injury, the mobile function of the joint is immediately disrupted, severe pain occurs, swelling or inflammation begins.
Endocrine pathologies, metabolic disorders. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system arise as a result of poor unbalanced nutrition, insufficient quality care for the animal. Pathologies of this type lead to serious destruction of the articular elements.
Infectious lesions of the joints, viral and bacterial diseases, parasitic diseases. Pathogenic microflora enters the animal’s blood, which leads to general malaise and joint problems. The nature of the disease is indicated by swelling and soreness of the joints, fever in the animal.
Oncological diseases. Typical for older dogs.

A separate and very important group of causes of joint problems is genetic and congenital pathologies. Poor heredity or breed characteristics is the risk of developing a variety of diseases in puppies and adults.

Diseases of the joints in large breed dogs

Joint disease in large breed dogs is caused by the puppy’s growth rate and characteristics, animal size, and genetics. The parts of the skeleton of large dogs develop at different rates, which leads to overloads on the joints and problems with them.

The list of standard joint pathologies in large dogs includes the following diseases:

Hip dysplasia, misalignment of articular surfaces due to congenital inferiority. Pathology is observed even in puppies. Almost all large and huge dogs are at risk. The first symptoms of the disease are the difficulty of climbing stairs, rapid fatigue, unnatural gait. If left untreated, the pet develops lameness to the point of complete immobility.
Elbow dysplasia. Due to an improperly formed elbow joint, dogs experience pain when moving the paw.
Osteochondrosis as a result of the destruction of the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral discs. At risk are actively developing large dogs – Rottweilers, Alabai, Shepherd Dogs, Labradors.
Damage to the discs of the spine. In large dogs, the pathology manifests itself in adulthood due to aging, weight gain, and decreased mobility. Symptoms – pain when walking and running, clumsy staggering gait, paw paralysis.
Degradation of the cervical vertebrae. It manifests itself as soreness of the neck, due to which the dog constantly lowers its head and muzzle down. At risk are Dobermans and Chow Chows.

Joint problems in small dogs

Due to congenital anomalies and genetic failures, small pets also suffer. Some diseases are similar to the pathologies of large dogs, but in most cases the diagnoses are different.

In dogs of small breeds, the following pathologies are more often detected:

Perthes disease is a violation of the normal blood supply to the femoral head and, as a result, femoral necrosis.
Elbow dislocation – develops due to a genetic failure and manifests itself in the form of an unnatural gait of a pet with constant paw tucking.
Discopathy in small breed dogs – degenerative changes in the tissues of the intervertebral discs.

Any owner can learn about genetic pathologies by studying the characteristics of the breed, as well as by receiving complete information from the breeder about the puppy’s parents. Timely detection of the disease is facilitated by scheduled examinations at the veterinarian, observation of the pet in everyday life, attention to any changes in character.

Congenital joint pathologies in dogs are only part of the potential problems. Acquired diseases are a separate category.

Most common joint diseases in dogs

All articular pathologies are divided into inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Inflammatory processes develop due to injuries, infections, stress, beriberi. Non-inflammatory – due to aging, genetic predisposition, poor nutrition, degenerative changes.

With inflammation of the joints in dogs, the following diagnoses can be made:

arthritis is a large group of pathologies that occur for a variety of reasons and are accompanied by the destruction of cartilage tissues and intense inflammatory processes;
bursitis – inflammation of the elbow or knee joints, characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the joint cavity, in the synovial bag;
synovitis – inflammation of the synovial membrane and periarticular tissues.

Joint pathologies that occur without obvious inflammation:

arthrosis is an incurable disease characterized by gradual destruction of the joint capsule;
torn anterior cruciate ligament – leads to instability of the knee joint and is eliminated only by surgical methods (TPLO, TTA).

Any joint problem is painful for a pet and requires urgent treatment from a veterinarian. To make a diagnosis, an experienced doctor will conduct tests, send the animal for a diagnostic examination. An accurate picture is given by radiography, computed or magnetic resonance imaging, myelography. The diagnostic method is selected by the veterinarian based on the results of the initial examination and study of the disease history.

After the diagnosis is made, a treatment plan is developed that takes into account the breed, age and individual characteristics of the animal.

Treatment of joints in dogs

You can restore the mobility of the animal and alleviate the condition by a variety of methods – home, medical, surgical.

Among home therapy, the main ways to support and rehabilitate an animal are:

Massages – improve blood circulation, support muscle function.
Compresses – to eliminate swelling and bruising.
Ointments and gels – for local relief of the condition, reducing inflammation.
Grooming – reduced activity, use of a walker or reins while walking.
Nutrition – menu correction to eliminate beriberi or to reduce weight.

Medical support is aimed at relieving inflammation, eliminating pain, and treating pathology. The main drugs for problems with dog leg joints are chondroprotectors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, analgesics, antibiotics.

Surgical treatment is recommended only in cases where the pathology cannot be corrected or stopped by other means. Operations are shown first:

In case of ACL ruptures, the joints of the hind leg of the dog are restored with implants, TPLO and TTA protocols, as well as other methods. Timely treatment completely restores the mobility of the animal, eliminates lameness.
In case of dysplasia, 4-5 month old puppies undergo pubic symphysiodesis, later operations of double or triple pelvic osteotomy are possible.

My knuckle is swollen. Knuckle Pain: Understanding Causes, Effective Treatments, and Prevention Strategies

Common Causes of Knuckle Pain and Swelling

Arthritis: The Primary Culprit

Other Common Causes

Diagnosing Knuckle Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Signs That Require Medical Attention

Effective Treatment Strategies for Knuckle Pain Relief

Conservative Treatment Options

Advanced Treatment Options

Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Healthy Knuckles

Exercise and Strengthening

Protective Measures

Nutritional Support

Understanding the Impact of Arthritis on Knuckle Health

Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis

Lifestyle Modifications for Managing Chronic Knuckle Pain

Ergonomic Considerations

Stress Management

Sleep Hygiene

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Knuckle Pain

Acupuncture

Massage Therapy

Herbal Supplements

The Role of Technology in Knuckle Pain Management

Wearable Devices

Smartphone Applications

Telemedicine Platforms

Knuckle Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

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Knuckle Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

How we reviewed this article:

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Another question about the knee: surgical removal of a Baker’s cyst

So, what is needed to make sure that joint pain can be cured without surgery?

Joint diseases in dogs: symptoms and treatment

Diseases of the joints in dogs: symptoms

Causes of diseased joints in dogs

Diseases of the joints in large breed dogs

Joint problems in small dogs

Most common joint diseases in dogs

Treatment of joints in dogs

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