Our joints help stay mobile, so they are an important part of our bodies. They are found in the knees, hips, ankles, feet, arms, and many other parts of the body. Joints in the body do a lot of work and undergo stress from body weight and repetitive movements. The swelling of the joints occurs when fluid builds up in the cushiony soft tissues surrounding them. These leads to some uncomfortable symptoms like stiffness, pain, swelling, irregular shapes. 

The affected joint is sometimes larger than normal and sometimes warm and red. The cause of joint inflammation is often the result of injuries and chronic conditions. To ensure the right joint inflammation treatment, a doctor must diagnose the root cause.

Common Causes of Joint Inflammation

One of the most common causes of joint inflammation is arthritis. There are different kinds of arthritis:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Septic arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis

Other causes include chronic illnesses, acute injuries, lupus, hypothyroidism, and tendonitis. 

Diagnosis of Joint Inflammation Causes

The treatment for joint inflammation and pain depends on the cause. The doctor diagnoses the cause of joint swelling and inflammation by first taking a medical history. They will also ask about when the swelling began, how long it has been going on, and how severe it has been. The doctor examines the affected joints and may order other types of testing, such as imaging tests, X-rays, blood tests, or joint aspiration. The doctor's recommended treatment plan depends on the results of the exam and tests.

Treatments for Joint Inflammation

For joint pain and swelling caused by an injury, at-home care is recommended to relieve symptoms. This may include applying ice/ heat, compression, and rest. For other causes, like psoriasis, lupus, and autoimmune conditions, the doctor's treatment plan often includes prescription medications along with physical therapy and other treatments.

Diseases that cause joint inflammation can't be cured. However, doctors can recommend effective treatment options to reduce pain and manage symptoms. Treatments include drugs that help lessen joint damage and may reduce the need for surgery. Some common medication includes both OTC and prescription medications like NSAIDs, steroids, biologic agents, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.

Management of symptoms using heat and cold, warm baths or shower, and even moist heat, can provide some relief. Even those suffering from chronic conditions can find relief using these at-home treatments along with medications prescribed by the doctor. To learn more about your options, it's wise to contact a joint inflammation treatment center.