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What is Arthralgia?
The term arthralgia means joint pain. The pain may be in one or more joints. It is a combination of two Greek words Arthro joint and algos pain. Joint is referred to a point where two or more joints meet. The joints of our wrists or elbows, knee joints, back, the hip, ankle, neck or shoulder are most at risk.Arthralgia or joint pain is a symptom of an underlying disease rather than a disease in itself that can be treated.
Recovery Time
Minor arthralgia can get better within a week by proper home treatments and in severe cases where medical attention is needed it depends on the underlying cause and type of treatment given.Diagnosis
After taking a physical examination and medical history of the patient the doctor may also suggest- Blood tests
- Joint fluid analysis
- Imaging tests (x-ray, ultrasound or MRI scan)
FAQs prepared by doctor
Q1. What is arthralgia?The term "arthralgia" encompasses all types of joint pain. Arthralgia or joint pain is a symptom of an underlying disease rather than a disease in itself that can be treated. Arthralgia may be due to mechanics, being the result of repeated effort, or inflammation, in which case it is already present upon waking and associated with stiff muscles. The pain may be in one or more joints. It is a combination of two Greek words Arthro joint and algos pain.
Q2. What are its symptoms?
The primary symptom of arthralgia is joint pain. The pain may be described as sharp, dull, stabbing, burning or throbbing. It may range in intensity from mild to severe. The joint pain may appear suddenly or develop and worsen over time. The other symptoms associated include: Burning feeling, Itching feeling, Numbness, Pain or tenderness, Redness, warmth or swelling, reduced mobility (range of motion of the joints), Stiffness, Tingling or other unusual sensations.
Q3. What to do when one suffers from arthralgia?
The best way of decreasing joint pain is to get plenty of rest and relaxation. If the pain is too great, attempt to immobilize the area with a splint or brace. Cold temperatures reduce blood flow, and therefore reduce tissue swelling. Apply an ice pack on the affected area every hour for the majority of the day for duration of 15 minutes.
Q4. When shall one consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if one experiences severe pain in the joint, unable to move the joint, Joint pain is associated with fever, pain is longer than 3 days, redness, swelling, warmth and tenderness near the joint or the joint appears deformed.