What to do with Sudden Joint Pain
By Sara Butler
Joint pain is a common affliction, especially in people over the age of 45. While joint pain may be common, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require care and attention. If you want to keep your body healthy and avoid chronic conditions, then you need to make sure you address joint pain the right way – with your chiropractor and beyond. Here’s a rundown on what can cause some of the most common types of joint pain and how your chiropractor can help.
Types of Joint Pain and Causes
Joint pain can appear suddenly, particularly if you’ve neglected an aspect of your health for a while. Some of the most common types of joint pain include:
- Injuries
- Arthritis
- Fractures
- Strains and sprains
- Autoimmune diseases
- Gout
- Lyme disease
- Hepatitis
- Measles
- Mumps
- Chicken pox
When joint pain strikes, it’s likely that it’s due to one of these things. Sharp pain in any joint is something to be concerned about, so no matter how long it’s been going on or even if it’s resolved on its own, you need to see the chiropractor and have it checked out.
What You Can Do
The first rule of thumb when dealing with sudden joint pain is to see the chiropractor, of course! Chiropractic care is a proactive way to deal with your health and wellness, so even in the absence of chronic or sudden pain, it’s good for your health and well-being.
Other things you can do to care for your joint appropriately include:
- A diet rich in fatty acids – Omega-3 fatty acids are really good for the joints. Eating foods rich in them can help to keep your joints healthy and functioning. Fish is a great source!
- Get more exercise – It may seem counterintuitive but increasing your physical activity can actually help to keep joint pain at bay. Stretching and movement help to support healthy joints and functioning.
- Get a massage – If you need an excuse to get a professional massage, do it for your joints! Massage can help you to relieve stress and improve joint health.
- Use ice – Ice isn’t fancy but it sure works. For minor aches and pains, ice is your best bet to help fight inflammation. Just be sure not to apply ice directly to the skin; always protect it with a towel or some other type of fabric.
Joint pain can be sneaky but with the help of your chiropractor and other methods, it doesn’t have to be a part of your future!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Dallas, Tex.