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Pain in my knuckle. Knuckle Pain: Understanding Causes, Effective Treatments, and Prevention Strategies

What are the common causes of knuckle pain. How can knuckle pain be effectively treated. What strategies can prevent knuckle discomfort. Discover expert insights on managing and alleviating pain in your knuckles.

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Unraveling the Mystery of Knuckle Pain: Common Causes and Symptoms

Knuckle pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, affecting one or multiple fingers. This discomfort can significantly impact daily activities, making simple tasks challenging. Understanding the root causes of knuckle pain is crucial for effective management and treatment.

The most prevalent cause of knuckle pain is arthritis, a condition characterized by joint inflammation. Arthritis in the knuckles typically manifests as pain during hand use, followed by a persistent dull ache. However, several other factors can contribute to knuckle discomfort:

  • Injuries (e.g., dislocations)
  • Tendonitis
  • Mixed connective tissue disease
  • Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout
  • Infections

Symptoms of knuckle pain may include:

  • Joint stiffness
  • Difficulty moving or bending fingers
  • Pain during joint movement
  • Swelling and redness
  • Persistent dull ache, even at rest

Diagnosing Knuckle Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Are you experiencing persistent or severe knuckle pain? It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. A thorough examination may include:

  1. Physical assessment of the affected joints
  2. Review of medical history
  3. Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound)
  4. Blood tests to check for inflammatory markers or specific conditions

Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment and prevent further joint damage. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if your knuckle pain persists or worsens over time.

Effective Treatment Options for Alleviating Knuckle Pain

While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating knuckle pain, several options can provide relief. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen.

Non-Invasive Treatments

  • 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: A 2017 study suggests that vitamin C may help reduce joint pain.
  • Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can improve joint mobility and strength.
  • Topical treatments: Creams or ointments containing capsaicin or menthol may provide localized pain relief.

Advanced Treatment Options

In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend:

  • Prescription medications: Including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Corticosteroid injections: To provide targeted relief for inflamed joints.
  • Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair joint damage.

Lifestyle Modifications to Manage Knuckle Pain

Incorporating certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact knuckle pain management:

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints
  • Practice good posture and ergonomics
  • Use assistive devices for challenging tasks
  • Incorporate low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling
  • Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga

These modifications can complement medical treatments and improve overall joint health.

Nutritional Strategies for Supporting Joint Health

Can diet play a role in managing knuckle pain? Absolutely. A well-balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can support joint health and potentially alleviate discomfort.

Key nutrients for joint health include:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds
  • Antioxidants: Present in colorful fruits and vegetables
  • Vitamin D: Obtained from sunlight exposure, fatty fish, and fortified foods
  • Calcium: Found in dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods
  • Collagen: Present in bone broth and can be taken as a supplement

Incorporating these nutrients into your diet may help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Knuckles

Taking proactive steps to protect your knuckles can help prevent pain and maintain joint health. Consider implementing these strategies:

  1. Exercise regularly: Engage in hand-strengthening exercises to improve joint resilience.
  2. Use protective gear: Wear gloves during activities that may strain your hands.
  3. Practice proper form: When lifting or carrying objects, use correct techniques to minimize joint stress.
  4. Take breaks: During repetitive tasks, pause regularly to rest your hands and fingers.
  5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management contribute to overall joint health.

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can reduce the risk of developing knuckle pain and maintain optimal hand function.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Knuckle Pain Relief

In addition to conventional treatments, some individuals find relief through alternative and complementary therapies. While scientific evidence may vary, these approaches can be worth exploring under professional guidance:

  • Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help alleviate pain and improve joint function.
  • Massage therapy: Gentle massage can improve circulation and reduce muscle tension around affected joints.
  • Herbal supplements: Some herbs, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit joint health.
  • Hot and cold therapy: Alternating between heat and cold applications can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
  • Mind-body techniques: Practices like tai chi and qigong combine gentle movements with mindfulness, potentially improving joint mobility and reducing pain.

It’s crucial to discuss these options with your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your treatment plan, as they may interact with existing medications or conditions.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Managing Knuckle Pain

Occupational therapy can be a valuable resource for individuals dealing with chronic knuckle pain. These specialists can provide:

  • Customized exercises to improve hand strength and dexterity
  • Recommendations for adaptive tools and devices
  • Strategies for performing daily tasks with minimal joint stress
  • Guidance on proper body mechanics and ergonomics
  • Education on joint protection techniques

Working with an occupational therapist can help you maintain independence and quality of life while managing knuckle pain.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Knuckle Pain

The field of rheumatology and joint health is continually evolving, with promising research underway. Some areas of interest include:

  • Regenerative medicine: Exploring the use of stem cells and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to promote joint healing
  • Targeted biologics: Developing more specific medications to address underlying causes of joint inflammation
  • Gene therapy: Investigating genetic approaches to modify disease progression in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
  • Nanotechnology: Exploring novel drug delivery systems for more effective and localized treatment
  • Wearable technology: Developing devices to monitor joint health and provide real-time feedback on movement patterns

While many of these treatments are still in experimental stages, they offer hope for more effective management of knuckle pain in the future.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Knuckle Pain

Chronic pain conditions, including persistent knuckle pain, can have significant psychological effects. It’s essential to address both the physical and emotional aspects of living with joint discomfort:

  • Depression and anxiety: Chronic pain can contribute to mood disorders
  • Sleep disturbances: Pain may interfere with getting restful sleep
  • Social isolation: Difficulty performing tasks may lead to withdrawal from activities
  • Stress: Ongoing pain can increase overall stress levels
  • Self-esteem issues: Limitations in daily activities may impact self-perception

Seeking support from mental health professionals, joining support groups, and practicing stress-reduction techniques can help manage the psychological impact of chronic knuckle pain.

Navigating Daily Life with Knuckle Pain: Practical Tips and Adaptations

Living with knuckle pain doesn’t mean giving up on your favorite activities. With some adaptations, you can continue to enjoy a fulfilling life:

  1. Use ergonomic tools: Invest in kitchen utensils, writing instruments, and other tools designed for easy grip and reduced joint stress.
  2. Modify your workspace: Ensure your computer setup, desk, and chair are optimized for joint health.
  3. Plan ahead: Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid overexertion.
  4. Explore new hobbies: If certain activities become challenging, consider alternatives that are gentler on your joints.
  5. Communicate your needs: Don’t hesitate to ask for help or explain your limitations to friends, family, and colleagues.

By making these adjustments, you can maintain independence and continue participating in activities you enjoy, despite knuckle pain.

The Importance of Regular Medical Follow-ups

Managing knuckle pain is an ongoing process that requires consistent medical attention. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider allow for:

  • Monitoring of disease progression
  • Adjustments to treatment plans as needed
  • Early detection of potential complications
  • Discussion of new treatment options
  • Addressing any concerns or questions you may have

Stay proactive in your healthcare journey by maintaining open communication with your medical team and attending scheduled appointments.

Understanding the causes, treatments, and prevention strategies for knuckle pain empowers you to take control of your joint health. By working closely with healthcare professionals and implementing lifestyle changes, you can effectively manage knuckle pain and maintain a high quality of life. Remember, each person’s experience with knuckle pain is unique, so it’s essential to develop a personalized approach that works best for your individual needs and circumstances.

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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Middle Knuckle Pain in the Finger | Causes and Treatments

Pain in the middle knuckle of the finger is usually caused by trauma from an injury or inflammation of the joints within the hand. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis can cause swelling and knuckle pain. Read below for more information on causes and treatment options.

7 most common causes

Illustration of various health care options.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis

Jammed Finger

Illustration of a doctor beside a bedridden patient.

Middle knuckle finger dislocation

Illustration of various health care options.

Non-serious finger injury

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Pain in the middle knuckle of the finger symptoms

Pain in the middle knuckle of the finger, or any finger, is usually the result of swelling. Swelling is the result of fluid buildup that gets trapped in your body’s tissues. Most people first notice swelling because the affected body part may appear larger than normal.

Common characteristics of pain in the middle knuckle of the finger

Often a painful or swollen middle finger can be easily identified by comparing its size to the size of your other fingers; however, sometimes the swelling may not be visibly obvious and difficult to discern.

Common accompanying symptoms

If your pain is not accompanied by obvious swelling, you may experience other symptoms that may include:

  • Stiffness
  • Limited range of motion
  • Stretched or shiny skin
  • Skin pitting: Skin that dimples or pits after pressing on the affected area for a few seconds
  • Warmth or redness of the affected area
  • Visible deformity

If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor promptly in order to follow up on your symptoms, get a diagnosis and receive appropriate care.

Causes of pain in the middle knuckle of the finger

Any condition that causes accumulation of fluid in the tissues of your finger will cause swelling and accompanying pain. Swelling can occur throughout the body due to a variety of causes, but swelling in just one part of the finger has limited triggers. A swollen finger or painful middle knuckle may not seem serious initially, but without prompt medical follow-up and care, your symptoms could worsen.

Inflammatory

Pain in the middle knuckle of the finger is often the result of injury and the resulting inflammatory response.

  • Rheumatologic: This category includes inflammatory conditions involving the body’s tissues and joints. Conditions such as arthritis and gout cause inflammation that easily brings fluid into the tissues leading to swelling, redness, and tenderness of single fingers and often the big toe.
  • Infections: The skin is home to many bacteria that can easily get into the finger via a cut, bite or other puncture. The bacteria will infect the tissues of the finger and cause entrance of fluids into the tissues that result in inflammation, swelling and other associated symptoms. Viral infections can also cause swelling of the finger in people with jobs that require exposure of the finger to body parts such as the mouth (dentists, nurses, healthcare professionals). This condition is known as herpetic whitlow.

Environmental

The finger is susceptible to many outside forces that can result in pain and injury.

  • Trauma: Trauma to the finger that causes pain and swelling can include simple mishaps such as jamming one’s finger on a wall or serious accidents that result in broken bones.
  • Weather: Sometimes extremely cold or hot weather can trigger swelling in people with pre-existing conditions such as Raynaud’s syndrome. Observe for any patterns in your finger swelling and tell your doctor in order to investigate an underlying condition.

This list does not constitute medical advice and may not accurately represent what you have.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the lining of the joints, causing them to become thickened and painful. It can also affect other parts of the body such as the heart, lungs, eyes, and circulatory system.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system turns against itself for unknown reasons.

Most at risk are women from ages 30-60. Other risk factors are family history, smoking, and obesity.

Early symptom include warm, swollen, stiff, painful joints, especially the fingers and toes; fatigue; and fever. Usually, the same joints on both sides of the body are affected.

If untreated, irreversible joint damage and deformity can occur, with other complications. Early diagnosis can allow preventive treatment to begin as soon as possible.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination; blood tests; and x-ray, CT scan, or MRI.

There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but the disease can be managed to improve quality of life. Treatment includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; steroids; anti-rheumatic drugs; physical therapy; and sometimes surgery to repair the joints.

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a complication of psoriasis, which causes the skin to become thickened, red, and scaly. Arthritis may appear before or after the psoriasis appears.

Both conditions are autoimmune diseases, where the body attacks itself, and are thought to be caused by genetic and environmental factors.

Most susceptible are people from 30 to 50 years of age with a family history of the disease and who already have psoriasis.

Symptoms include the joints on one or both sides of the body becoming painful, swollen, and hot; swelling and deformity of the fingers and toes; pitted, flaking fingernails; foot pain in the heels and soles; and joint pain in the low back pain.

It is important to seek treatment, as psoriatic arthritis can permanently damage the joints, eyes, and heart.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination, x-rays, and MRI. Blood tests and joint fluid tests can confirm psoriatic arthritis.

Treatment includes over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; anti-rheumatic medication; immunosuppressants; and steroid injections for the joints. Surgery to replace damaged joints may also be tried.

Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic condition that involves inflammation, aching pain, and morning stiffness. It affects muscles close to the middle of the body, including the shoulders, hips, and back. Its cause is not known, but it is more common in people over 50 years old.

You should consider visiting a healthcare provider within the next day to discuss your symptoms. PMR can be evaluated with a review of your symptoms and medical history. Your provider may also perform a blood test. Once diagnosed, it can be treated with prescription steroid medication, which can improve symptoms within one week.

Non-serious finger injury

Finger injuries are very common & rarely need medical treatment.

You can treat this at home with ice and rest. An X-ray would be necessary to rule out a fracture if you had swelling and difficulty moving the finger.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: recent finger injury, finger pain from an injury, swollen finger, severe finger pain

Symptoms that always occur with non-serious finger injury: recent finger injury

Symptoms that never occur with non-serious finger injury: bent or crooked finger

Urgency: Self-treatment

Middle knuckle finger dislocation

The middle knuckle is called the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. A PIP joint dislocation occurs when trauma causes the bones of the finger to dislodge, resulting in a very painful and swollen joint.

You should visit your primary care physician within the next 24 hours. This injury is very painful, and is usually treated by a hand specialist. Surgery is not usually required, and treatment consists of icing the affected area, splinting the finger, and anti-inflammatory and pain reducing drugs.

Rarity: Rare

Top Symptoms: bent or crooked finger, finger dislocation at the knuckle connected to the palm, pain in the middle knuckle of the finger, finger pain from an injury, swelling of the small knuckle of the dmiddle index finger

Symptoms that always occur with middle knuckle finger dislocation: bent or crooked finger, finger dislocation at the knuckle connected to the palm

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Jammed finger

Jammed fingers are common in sports but may occur during daily activity.

You should visit a physician or urgent care center in the next day. Generally, surgery is not required and splinting is sufficient.

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden pain, stiffness, and swelling in a joint. The big toe is often affected, but it can also happen in other joints. Sometimes, the joint gets hot and red. Gout is caused by uric acid crystals. Risk factors for gout include obesity, eating a lot of meat, drinking beer, age (older), sex (male), and family history.

You should see a healthcare professional to see if uric acid crystals have accumulated in the joint. Gout can be diagnosed based on symptoms, but it’s also common to take a sample of joint fluid for testing. A physician can give you a prescription for anti-inflammatory medications and/ or pain medications. There are also medications to stop your body from making too much uric acid. Sometimes, a shot in the joint can help with symptoms also.

Pain in the middle knuckle of the finger treatments and relief

At-home treatments

If you note pain in the middle knuckle of your finger after trauma such as jamming or hitting your finger:

  • Rest, Ice and Elevate: Put an ice pack on your finger or place your finger in ice water every 15 minutes. Maintain your finger elevated and still to minimize further irritation and prevent continued fluid accumulation in your tissues.
  • Protect: If the pain and swelling persist, you can protect the affected finger from further trauma by attaching it to an adjacent finger using tape or a self-adhesive wrap. The affected finger will be less likely to move which prevents further inflammation and fluid accumulation.

When to see a doctor

If your swollen finger persists for a prolonged period of time and worsens despite not seeming related to a traumatic event, make an appointment with your doctor. Depending on the cause your doctor may initiate:

  • Antibiotics: Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics if your swollen finger is due to a bacterial infection. The antibiotics will combat the infection and allow the body to lessen its inflammatory response.
  • Rheumatologic medications: There are many different types of medications that combat rheumatologic conditions that may be causing your swollen finger. Talk to your doctor to discuss and come to an agreement about the best type of treatment.

When it is an emergency

Seek medical care immediately if:

  • Your finger appears deformed
  • You cannot straighten your finger
  • The area becomes hot and inflamed and you develop a fever
  • Swelling and pain increases significantly and persists
  • The finger becomes numb and turns white or pink

These symptoms may be related to a more serious cause such as a broken finger resulting in decreased blood flow to the finger and/or hand.

FAQs about pain in the middle knuckle of the finger

What is a rheumatoid nodule?

A rheumatoid nodule is one of the most common skin manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the joints and results in painful movement and stiffness, especially in the fingers, wrists, and ankles. Nodules are large, painful bumps that often develop in the joints of the fingers and also on the elbows, forearm, back, heel and many other areas.

What is a Heberden node?

A Heberden node is a common skin manifestation of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease caused primarily by degeneration of joint cartilage. A Heberden node is a hard, bony swelling that results over time due to chronic degeneration and resulting inflammation. These nodes often occur in the middle and index fingers. See this image here of nodes in someone with osteoarthritis.

What is the difference between a middle finger fracture and a middle finger dislocation?

A fracture occurs when the bones in a body part break. A dislocation does not involve breaking bones but rather only displacement or misalignment of bones. The distinction is important as fractures and dislocations are treated differently. If you experience trauma to the finger that results in severe pain and visible deformity, make an appointment with your healthcare provider to get the appropriate diagnosis and care.

What is herpetic whitlow?

Herpetic whitlow is an infectious lesion on the finger or thumb caused by the herpes simplex virus. See an image of this type of lesion here. This is often a side effect of oral herpes infection and is a common hazard in occupational settings such as dentistry and healthcare where individuals are repeatedly exposed to infected secretions.

How can I prevent infection of my middle finger?

Proper hand hygiene is the key to preventing skin infection. Wash the hands regularly with soap and water, avoid putting the hands in the mouth and make sure to cover cuts and abrasions with bandages.

Questions your doctor may ask about pain in the middle knuckle of the finger

  • Did you injure your finger?
  • Do any of your body parts (e.g., toes, hands, ears) feel cold?
  • Did you get a manicure and/or pedicure in the past few days?
  • Where on your finger is the pain worst?

Self-diagnose with our free Buoy Assistant if you answer yes on any of these questions.

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP…

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Pain in the joints: eight common myths

June 29, 2020

Author of the article: Tubylova (Mishineva) Oksana Petrovna, general practitioner, rheumatologist

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Various pathologies of the joints and spine are diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Usually, patients, in the event of relevant complaints, turn to surgeons, orthopedists or traumatologists. And this is not entirely justified, since in multidisciplinary clinics, a rheumatologist-arthrologist is engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of this group of diseases.

It is possible that you have already come across the opinion that problems with the musculoskeletal system have acquired the character of a “silent epidemic” in modern society. Like any epidemic, this one, albeit “quiet”, is overgrown with its own myths and misconceptions. To clarify the situation, we turned to a rheumatologist at the Medservice clinic with the question of which of the generally accepted ideas is true and which is a common myth.

Myth 1. If the joint hurts, you need to go to the surgeon

In fact, if the pain is associated with an injury, then it is necessary to contact a traumatologist, in other cases it is better to go to a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist can also help with the consequences of chronic joint injuries.

Myth 2. X-ray will show the cause of joint pain

On radiography, bone structures are clearly visible, while joint pain and pathology of the musculoskeletal system are more often associated with damage to the ligaments, menisci in the knee, and muscles. These are soft tissues, and they are well visualized on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Myth 3. A crunch in the joint is always a pathology

It all depends on age. In young people, most often a crunch, if it does not cause pain, is not a pathology. In older people, this may be a manifestation of osteoarthritis.

Myth 4. If your back hurts, then it is osteochondrosis and you need to be treated by a neurologist

Most often yes. But in some cases, especially in men, the cause of pain can be a rheumatological disease – Bechterew’s disease. To exclude or confirm this diagnosis, it is necessary to consult a rheumatologist.

Myth 5. If you have pain in your joints, you shouldn’t play sports

Quite the opposite, you can not stop moving, just the nature of the classes, intensity and frequency must be discussed with the doctor.

Myth 6. Shoes with heels are harmful

High-heeled shoes are harmful, as are shoes without a heel at all. It is necessary to wear shoes with a heel – men 1-2 cm, women 2-5 cm. Incorrectly selected shoes can cause pain in the joints and back.

Myth 7. Joints hurt due to salt deposits

This is one of the most common misconceptions. In fact, only in one group of diseases the cause is the deposition of salts, in all other cases the causes are different. We are talking about gout, when joint pain is caused by the deposition of uric acid salts in the joint.

Myth 8. To restore cartilage – you need to eat jelly

In order to restore cartilage with jelly, you can, conditionally, eat a jelly bath and not once. True, unfortunately, this will not lead to anything good, unless the person has set as his goal a metabolic disorder, an increase in cholesterol, uric acid, and an exacerbation of pancreatitis.

Do not self-medicate, as well as self-diagnosis, you should not start the disease. In many cases, pain can be cured quickly if the correct diagnosis is made immediately and treatment is prescribed.

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Author of article

Tubylova (Mishineva) Oksana Petrovna

general practitioner, rheumatologist, head of department

Successfully applies scientific knowledge, clinical thinking and practical experience in practice. He considers the main principle in his work: “To treat not a disease, but a person”. Professional interests are complex cases, difficult to diagnose.

Annually takes part in the congress of therapists, gastroenterologists. In 2014, she participated in the 20th Anniversary United Russian Gastroenterological Week in Moscow.

“I am a general practitioner, a rheumatologist. As a general practitioner, I see patients with viral infections, patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. If a person has health problems, I, as a therapist, will figure it out and deal with the problem or refer me to a related specialists and we will jointly decide how to treat the patient, what examinations are needed. My second specialty is a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist is when “nothing is clear at all.” Patients come to me with pain in the joints, often refer patients with elevated ESR , temperature and I have to deal with the patient for a long time. I also manage patients under the “Personal Doctor” program. There are patients who are observed by families. When a person recovers after my treatment, it is like a balm for the soul. Be healthy! We are always happy to help you” – Oksana Petrovna Tubylova (Mishineva), general practitioner, rheumatologist.

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Type of pain Occurrence condition Description Possible cause
Mechanical Occurs in people of any age during physical exertion, playing sports Aching pains that pass at rest, with self-massage, physiotherapy procedures Metabolic disorders, previous trauma, dystrophic changes in the cartilaginous tissues of the joints
Starter Marked at the beginning of the movement Sharp pain and limitation of joint mobility, decreases 3-5 minutes after the start of physical activity Arthrosis osteochondrosis
Night Drawing pain of intermittent intensity Occurs at rest, during stress, overexertion, after consumption of smoked meat or pickles Arthrosis, gout
Reflected Twisting, aching, drawing pain Spreads into surrounding tissues. Occurs during sports activities, overweight Diseases of the spine, arthrosis, arthritis