What is the most common cause of joint pain among older adults?

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain with approximately 80\% of adults 55 years and older experiencing this type of joint discomfort. Osteoarthritis can affect numerous joints including fingers, spine, hips, and knees.

When do joints start hurting?

And it’s not just in your head — research shows that joint pain caused by arthritis and other age-related conditions are more likely to begin in your 40s. So if you’re starting to feel a bit less flexible than you used to, or even if you’re not, the time to start giving extra love to your joints is now.

Why do I ache as I get older?

Is it normal to ache as you get older? Yes, often aching joints and muscles are simply the effects of age. As you get older, the natural tendency is for muscles to get smaller and lose some of their strength. Bones also start to get weaker over time.

How do I stop aching and hurting?

resting the area of the body where you’re experiencing aches and pains. taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil) applying ice to the affected area to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Does joint pain always mean arthritis?

While the most common cause of joint pain is arthritis, not every swollen knee or stiff elbow is the result of an arthritic condition. You could have a different problem altogether, and it’s important to have a joint specialist who explores all avenues to arrive at the right diagnosis, not just the most likely one.

Is joint pain just part of the territory as you age?

As you age, you might expect that some level of joint pain or arthritis is just part of the territory. Experts now say that may not be the case if you start making healthy changes early. Pain showing up as people age is a real thing.

When should I go to the doctor for joint pain?

See a doctor immediately if your joint pain is caused by an injury and is accompanied by: Self-care. When caring for mild joint pain at home, follow these tips: Try an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve).

What does it mean when your joints hurt all the time?

Osteoarthritis (OA) This common condition happens when the protective cartilage between your joint and bone breaks down, causing pain in those joints, like hands, knees, and hips. “ Osteoarthritis is often the result of age-related changes, or an injury or wear-and-tear from a sport or another activity,” Fay says.

What is the best way to treat joint pain at home?

Self-care. When caring for mild joint pain at home, follow these tips: Try an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve). Avoid using your joint in ways that cause or worsen pain. Apply ice or a package of frozen peas to your painful joint for 15 to 20 minutes a few times each day.