The human body is equipped with approximately 400 joints that operate to its mobility as well as its flexibility.As we age, the function of the body weakens and the joint ssuffer the consequences.This is when joint pain occurs, as some people tend to think.However, this disease affects different types of public but not only the elderly.Following an IFOP survey "The French and rheumatism" conducted for INSERM and "Ensemble contre les rhumatismes", it was found that 93% of French people say they have already suffered from joint pain.1/3 of 18-24 year olds currently suffer from it.Indeed, this pain can occur at any time and can happen at any age, but it particularly affects overweight people and those who practice sports regularly and at an advanced level.The latter make excessive use of their ligaments and joints, which leads to overuse and causes repetitive strain injuries.
For a simple definition, the joint is the junction area between two or more bones.They are mainly bones of a convoluted nature which are also made up of various materials such as connective tissue (for support), cartilage, membranes, ligaments and fluid (synovial fluid).It is therefore essential to take care of it as it is used throughout the day and even more so during sports activities.
What causes joint pain?
In order to preserve the joints, it is important to know what causes them to hurt.There are two distinct groups of joint pain and the causes and consequences are also different.A distinction can be made between arthritis and arthrosis.The first pathology comes from an inflammation or a pestilence with acute and chronic aspects.The second is the type that evolves slowly and can affect the entire joint family.It is due to the degradation of the cartilage and generates accentuated afflictions to the joints.
Depending on the type of pain, there are many causes of joint pain.
- Traumatic causes:
Following an accident such as a fall or a shock, linked to a capital effort or even an intense stretching for sportsmen, the joints as well as its constituents which compose them can be affected.
- Inflammatory causes :
Inflammation of one or more joints of the joint
- Mechanical causes, relating to the erosion of certain tissues that make them up.
- Infectious causes: these are cases that do not happen often, but certain viruses such as influenza, for example, can trigger joint pain.
In short, once the presence of swelling or the appearance of redness is noticed, it is a general rule to consult a specialist doctor immediately.If the pain is accompanied by a fever, an emergency medical consultation is essential.It is the doctor's responsibility to determine the type of pain by diagnosing the origin and cause, in order to provide the appropriate treatment.
What are the consequences of joint problems?
A person with joint pain suffers from a lack of flexibility, and loses mobility due to stiffness.This is the first and most common adverse effect.Another consequence, and not the least, is the pain associated with these joint problems.Not only does it have an effect on the body of the person affected, but its impact on everyday life is even more significant.The pain causes a lack of sleep, impacts on leisure, work and family life.
How to take care of it?
It should be noted that for this type of disease, physical activity is strongly advised, contrary to what some people might believe.Exercise helps to preserve your osteoarticular capital.Also, many active people participate in limiting this discomfort and the associated pain by acting at several levels.
- Acting on the synovial fluid
The synovial fluid plays a crucial role as it limits the friction between bones and absorbs shocks.Hyaluronic acid is an omnipresent component in the body.In the joints, hyaluronic acid is present in the cartilage and synovial fluid.
- Strengthening cartilage
Cartilage lines the contact area of the bones and acts as a "shock absorber", ensuring good flexibility.
Chondroitin and glucosamine act in synergy to consolidate cartilage and thus prevent its erosion.Chondroitin is the main component of cartilage and thus promotes its reconstruction.It also inhibits the enzymes responsible for its destruction.As for glucosamine, it is a minority constituent and thus contributes to the structure of cartilage.
- Limiting inflammation
Inflammatory factors are one of the causes of pain, causing irritation to the nerve endings in the joints.
There are many plants that can be used to combat inflammation and stiffness, such as boswellia, harpagophytum and bromelain.
Besides physical activity, there are some precautions to take in order to preserve the joints:
- It is necessary to carry out exercises followed by muscular stretching, every morning when waking up;
- It is also advisable to use a well adapted pillow and to replace the bedding if necessary.It should be noted that the bed base and mattress should normally be renewed every ten years;
- It is important to eat less fatty meals, especially in case of repeated gout.
- Drink water at least 1/2L per day and stop drinking alcohol;
- For overweight people, it is necessary to think of losing weight by following slimming diets in order to unload the weight on the joints;
- For sportsmen, do not neglect the warm-up, the consumption of water and also reduce the pace of training.
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