Joint Stiffness and Pain: Causes and Solutions

There is a sensation of the joint getting stuck..?

The knee has a sensation of getting stuck, accompanied by a grinding noise when moving.
When it feels stuck, there is often a dull ache.
Previously, this issue was limited to the knees, but now it sometimes occurs in the wrists and occasionally in the chest area (between the ribs).
There have been instances of bone grinding sounds and pain in that area without any movement.
It feels somewhat similar to arthritis or joint degeneration, but usually, there is no pain.
The knee only hurts when sitting in certain vehicles, like a bus, where there is no place to rest the feet, forcing them to stay on the ground.
In such cases, if the knee moves after sitting for a while, it can be painful, similar to the discomfort experienced when supporting the head with the hand at a nearly 90-degree angle for an extended period.

Additionally, when the weather turns cold or there is a continuous breeze (like from a fan), the hands, feet, or legs may hurt (this seems to have started since elementary school).
The pain is not always localized to the joints; typically, it occurs in the wrists, forearms, the area between the wrist and forearm, ankles, and calves.
Generally, minor injuries can be alleviated by gentle massage, but this type of pain does not improve with touch or pressure; it only worsens.
The painful areas often feel cold to the touch, reminiscent of the saying that injuries can hurt more with changes in the weather.

However, I do not recall ever experiencing a sprain or similar sports injury.
In elementary and middle school, after running, there would be some pain, but it did not affect activity and would resolve quickly.
After high school, while attending night school, I hardly exercised.
Occasionally, I would jog a little, like running up a flight of stairs (only about 5 or 6 steps) or crossing a street, and then I would suddenly experience pain (not just after running).
This pain can be severe enough to cause limping.
Currently, my height is around 165 cm, and my weight has only reached a maximum of about 46 or 47 kg.

ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/14

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Your issue involves multiple joints and there is no significant history of trauma.
There are abnormal sounds in the joints, but you did not mention whether you have sought medical evaluation.
It is recommended that you visit an orthopedic or rheumatology clinic for a detailed examination to determine if there are any internal joint issues or arthritis.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2006/05/14

More Info

Joint stiffness and pain can be a complex issue, often resulting from various underlying conditions. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to joint issues, possibly including osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or even early signs of joint degeneration. Let’s break down the potential causes and solutions for your symptoms.

Potential Causes of Joint Stiffness and Pain
1. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time. Symptoms include stiffness, pain, and a sensation of grinding or clicking in the joints. It is common in weight-bearing joints like the knees and can also affect the hands.

2. Tendinitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tendons, which can cause pain and stiffness around the affected joint. It is often due to repetitive motion or overuse, which can happen with daily activities or sports.

3. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints) can lead to pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, elbows, and hips.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune condition that can cause joint pain and stiffness, often affecting multiple joints symmetrically. It can also lead to systemic symptoms like fatigue.

5. Weather Sensitivity: Many people report increased joint pain with changes in weather, particularly cold and damp conditions. This could be due to changes in barometric pressure affecting the joints.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Joint Sounds: The grinding or clicking sounds you hear when moving your joints can indicate cartilage wear or tendon movement over the bones.

- Stiffness: Morning stiffness or stiffness after sitting for long periods can be a sign of arthritis.

- Pain with Activity: If you experience pain during specific movements or after prolonged inactivity, it may indicate joint or tendon issues.

Solutions and Management Strategies
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the joints, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. A physical therapist can provide tailored exercises that focus on your specific issues.

2. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. If your pain is more severe, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications.

3. Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate your pain is crucial. If certain movements or positions trigger discomfort, try to modify your activities to reduce strain on your joints.

4. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, potentially alleviating pain and stiffness.

5. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can help relax and soothe stiff joints, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain.

6. Joint Supplements: Some people find relief with supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, although scientific evidence on their effectiveness is mixed.

7. Regular Exercise: Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or walking can help maintain joint function and reduce stiffness. Stretching exercises can also improve flexibility.

8. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult a rheumatologist or orthopedic specialist for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

Conclusion
Joint stiffness and pain can significantly impact your quality of life, but understanding the underlying causes and implementing appropriate management strategies can help alleviate symptoms. It’s essential to listen to your body and seek professional advice if your symptoms persist or interfere with daily activities. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can ensure that you receive the best care tailored to your needs.

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