Joint pain

Joint pain is a symptom of many infectious, degenerative and general diseases. It occurs in arthrosis (more commonly known as osteoarthritis) and other rheumatic diseases. The pain is sometimes accompanied by swelling and redness.

Overview

Joint pain is a symptom of many infectious, degenerative and general diseases. It occurs in arthrosis (more commonly known as osteoarthritis) and other rheumatic diseases. The pain is sometimes accompanied by swelling and redness. A doctor should be consulted for these symptoms as well as for misalignment, severe pain or a limited range of movement in the affected joint.

Symptoms

Main symptom

  • Pain at, in and around the joint

Possible symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Redness, overheating
  • Restricted movement
  • Sometimes general symptoms (e.g. fatigue)

Causes and treatment

Causes

There are many possible causes which have to be investigated by a doctor, such as

General diseases with possible joint pain

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests
  • Physical examination
  • Blood test
  • Ultrasound
  • X-ray
  • Arthroscopy
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
  • CT scan (computed tomography)
Possible therapies
  • Depending on the diagnosis

What can I do myself?

  • Pursue a healthy and balanced lifestyle
    • Diet
    • Normal weight
    • Regular exercise/sport, but extreme sports aren't recommended
    • Don’t smoke, use alcohol in moderation

When to see a doctor?

  • Joint inflammation (red, swollen, overheated)
  • Restricted movement
  • Joint misalignment
  • Severe or persistent pain
  • Pain at night, while at rest
  • Negative impact on daily life
  • Strong feeling of being unwell, high fever

Further information

Rheumaliga Schweiz (Swiss League against Rheumatism)
www.rheumaliga.ch

Synonyms

joint pain, arthralgia, joint disorders, joint problems

Exclusion of liability

CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.