Causes and Prevention of Future Joint Pain

A body in motion stays in motion ­– right? Unfortunately, even a body in motion can be affected by joint issues that can slow you down.

Whether from wear and tear, previous injuries or excess weight, joint issues can be extremely painful. They can make everyday and physical activities difficult. Learn how to prevent future joint issues before they happen so you can keep moving throughout your whole life.

What causes joint pain?

Joint issues and pain can stem from a variety of causes, including wear and tear, previous injuries, or a health condition, such as an autoimmune disease, osteoarthritis, obesity or diabetes. Genetic factors can also play a role in your likelihood of developing joint issues.

“Joint pain in weight-bearing joints is the most common,” shares Ryan Szepiela, MD, a sports medicine provider with ProMedica Physicians Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “It can also usually be attributed to repetitive tasks in a person’s everyday life.”

Think about what you do often for work or in your free time. If you work at a computer, you may experience joint pain in your fingers, wrists, neck and shoulders. Someone running long distances on concrete daily may be more likely to experience knee and hip issues.

Preventing Future Joint Pain

Aim to exercise for 30 to 60 minutes at least three to four times a week. “It’s important to strengthen the areas you use often, which are more prone to arthritis. Also, focus on strengthening any areas you may have injured previously,” Dr. Szepiela recommends.

Eating a healthy diet, especially one low in inflammatory foods, can also help. “Foods high in inflammatory factors can make joint pain worse,” Dr. Szepiela explains. Inflammatory foods include processed meats, foods and beverages high in added sugar, fried foods, and white bread and pasta.

Exercise and eating a healthy diet are key to preventing future joint pain because they can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Supplementation may also be beneficial for other adults. Glucosamine is an amino sugar that helps the body build tendons, ligaments, cartilage and the fluid around joints. This can be taken in supplement form to help encourage your body to produce more of these good things and reduce your joint pain.

However, before starting any joint supplementation, talk to your provider. Glucosamine may not be recommended for some people, as it may increase blood sugar or interact negatively with other medications.

In fact, yearly physicals can be the most important method of preventing future joint pain. Yearly physicals with your primary care provider help you and your provider establish a baseline. You’re also able to get any potential health issues under control before they become a problem. “Health care is most effective when done preventively,” Dr. Szepiela shares.

Joint Pain Related to Type 2 Diabetes

Health conditions such as diabetes may also increase your risk of developing joint issues. “Initially, it was thought that high levels of osteoarthritis among individuals who have type 2 diabetes was because of lack of activity. However, new research shows that insulin resistance can increase inflammatory cells in the body, causing joint destruction,” shares Dr. Szepiela.

Proper management of type 2 diabetes and taking preventive measures become even more important in preventing future joint issues.

Manage your blood sugar, eat a healthy diet and remain active to prevent progression of joint damage.

Getting Started

If you are not active or if you are returning to activity after an injury, starting gradually is important.

Always consult with your primary care provider before beginning a new exercise program. They will evaluate you and perform any necessary tests to ensure you’re ready for exercise. They can also provide referrals to exercise or therapy programs to get you started.

Dr. Szepiela recommends beginning with a physical therapy program before starting on your own. A physical therapist can guide you in a successful exercise routine. Lower-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling can help strengthen your joints and prepare them for higher-intensity exercise.

If you are currently experiencing joint pain, taking a daily anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen, Naproxen or Aspirin can help reduce inflammation and pain. Always consult with your physician before starting a medication regimen for the treatment of joint pain.

Ryan Szepiela, MD
Dr. Szepiela is a sports medicine provider with Promedica Physicians Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. View his profile.