MANUAL MINORS
There are various conditions that can cause pain in the joints and limbs, ranging from inflammatory and degenerative diseases to traumatic injuries or infections. Below are some of the most common issues that may cause pain in these areas.
Differential Diagnosis
Condition | Description |
Rheumatoid Arthritis | Autoimmune disease causing chronic inflammation in multiple joints, with pain, stiffness, and progressive deformities. |
Osteoarthritis | Degenerative wear and tear of joint cartilage, causing mechanical pain, mild morning stiffness, and joint crepitus. |
Gout | Acute arthritis caused by the accumulation of urate crystals in joints, commonly affecting the big toe. |
Fibromyalgia | Widespread muscle and joint pain, accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tenderness in specific points. |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus | Autoimmune disease affecting multiple systems, causing joint pain, skin rashes, and systemic symptoms. |
Bursitis | Inflammation of bursae around joints, leading to localised pain, swelling, and tenderness. |
Tendinitis | Inflammation of a tendon, causing pain along the affected tendon, especially with muscle movement. |
Tenosynovitis | Inflammation of the tendon and its synovial sheath, causing pain and swelling along the tendon and limited movement. |
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. |
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) | Muscle or joint pain caused by repetitive movements, common in jobs requiring continuous motions. |
Ankylosing Spondylitis | Chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine, causing morning pain and stiffness. |
Peripheral Neuropathy | Nerve damage causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs. |
Acute Compartment Syndrome | Increased pressure within a muscle compartment causing severe pain, swelling, and risk of tissue damage. |
Fractures and Sprains | Traumatic injuries causing sharp pain, swelling, deformity, and functional limitations in the affected bones or joints. |
Septic Arthritis (Joint Infection) | Bacterial infection of a joint, causing severe pain, swelling, warmth, and fever. |
Emergency Management
Emergency management depends on the cause of the pain. Analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often administered to control pain and inflammation. In cases of infection or suspected septic arthritis, antibiotics should be started immediately. If pain is associated with a fracture or dislocation, immobilisation of the affected area is crucial, and in some cases, reduction of the dislocation is necessary.
Definitive Treatment
Definitive treatment depends on the underlying cause. It often includes physiotherapy, activity modification to prevent joint overload, and in chronic cases, specific medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologics. Surgical interventions may be required in cases of severe joint damage, such as advanced osteoarthritis or significant traumatic injuries.
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