Why joints hurt
Joint pain may relate to irritated joint linings, tendons, ligaments, cartilage or the muscles that control movement. Osteoarthritis is common with age, but many people with arthritis on X-ray have little pain, and pain levels can improve even when the X-ray does not change. Overuse, sudden increases in activity and old injuries are other common contributors.
Some joint pain is caused by inflammatory conditions, infection or gout, which need medical diagnosis and treatment.
Assessing the joint and what surrounds it
Your chiropractor examines the painful joint along with the joints above and below it. For a knee, that means looking at the hip and ankle; for a shoulder, the neck and upper back. Strength, range of motion, stability and the movements that provoke pain are all checked.
Care options for joint pain
Depending on your findings, care may include:
- Joint mobilisation and Mulligan techniques to ease restricted movement
- Soft tissue techniques for surrounding muscles and tendons
- Kinesiology or rigid taping for support during activity
- A progressive strength and mobility program
- Advice on load, footwear and activity changes
Keeping active with sore joints
Regular, appropriate exercise is one of the most effective things you can do for most joint pain, including osteoarthritis. Low-impact options such as walking, cycling and swimming are often well tolerated. The aim is to find a level of activity that challenges the joint without causing a lasting flare-up.
What happens at your first joint pain visit
Wear clothes that allow the painful joint to be seen and moved. Your chiropractor will ask about previous injuries, morning stiffness, swelling and how the joint affects work, sport or sleep. They will compare both sides, then explain what they think is driving the pain. If tests from your GP would help, such as blood tests for inflammatory conditions, they will say so.
You will usually leave with a clear first step, whether that is treatment, exercise or a referral.
When to see your GP
See a doctor promptly if a joint is hot, red and swollen, if you feel unwell or feverish, if several joints are painful and stiff in the mornings, or if you cannot bear weight after an injury. These signs may need tests or medical treatment.
This page is general information only and is not a substitute for individual advice. If you are unsure whether your symptoms need urgent care, call your GP, healthdirect on 1800 022 222, or 000 in an emergency.