Understanding Muscle Joint Pain
Usually when a person starts to experience pain in the joints when they are moving, they automatically assume that they are suffering from some sort of arthritis. However, other conditions can mimic this more common problem, while having an entirely different cause. Muscle joint pain can be caused by several different conditions. Getting to the root of the problem is important so that you can get the most effective treatment for your discomfort.
Common forms of arthritis are developed when there is s breakdown in the normal action of joints. Each joint is comprised of the bone, cartilage and a pocket of lubricating fluid between that allows for free movement between these two. Arthritic patients lose that fluid over time and pain is caused as the cartilage and bone rub against each other with no lubrication.
In severe cases, the bone may become worn, damaged or injured. This can usually be determined through an x-ray or other type of test. If this has been ruled out in your case, you are likely suffering from some form of muscle joint pain. This has several common causes.
One of the possible causes of muscle joint pain is an autoimmune disorder, such as Lupus. These types of diseases aren't always understood, as they can be systemic in nature. However, the accompanying symptoms are well recognized. With Lupus arthritis, inflammation is almost always the cause of the muscle joint pain.
While the lubrication system is working normally, the surrounding tissue and muscles has become irritated and inflamed. In most situations, the joints aren't subject to permanent damage and deformities are rare. However, a great deal of pain is caused each time the joint is moved. Tendons and nerves may also be affected, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Another common problem that causes this sort of pain is an existing injury. When the body is young and strong, it can recover from injuries to bones, ligaments and muscles with only minor lasting effects. However, as you age, the support systems surrounding these injuries weaken and more severe muscle joint pain can be the result.
Finally, with women, muscle joint pain can accompany the change of life known as menopause. There are dozens of systems in a woman's body that are affected by hormone levels. While the reproductive cycle is the most commonly recognized hormonal system, there are subtle effects to many other parts of a woman's body.
When those hormones change and adjust, joint pain is quite common. One of the effects of estrogen is to reduce inflammation, so removing the steady flow quickly can cause the body to experience a negative reaction.
There are several things you can do to relieve muscle joint pain. The first tip is to keep moving. If you stop using the affected area, the muscles can atrophy, making the condition worse. Even a mild exercise regime can bring significant relief. You may also benefit from anti-inflammatory substances if this is found to be the root of your problem.
Finally, adding a good dose of foods or supplements high in Omega-3 fats can help as well.
