Joint Pain

Visit the Emergency Department if you have any of the following:

• Suspected Fracture - Severe joint pain or swelling after a significant injury or fall, especially if the joint looks deformed or you cannot move it.
• Suspected Joint Infection - Joint pain with fever, chills, swelling, redness and warmth around the joint.

Visit the GP or Polyclinic if you have any of the following:

• Joint pain that is mild to moderate and has been present for a few days.
• Chronic joint pain that you are managing but need a check-up or a referral to a specialist like a rheumatologist.
• A history of similar joint pain due to gout.

What you can do:

• Rest the Joint: When the pain flares up, stop the activity that's causing it. Give the joint a break to prevent further inflammation and allow it to heal.
• Apply Heat or Cold: For a new injury or an acute flare-up with swelling, use a cold pack for 15-20 minutes, several times a day. Cold constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation. For chronic pain or muscle stiffness around the joint, a heat pack can help relax the muscles and increase blood flow.
• Use Over-the-Counter Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Paracetamol is an option for pain and fever relief without the anti-inflammatory effect.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts significant stress on your weight-bearing joints (knees, hips, and spine). Losing even a small amount of weight can dramatically reduce the pressure on these joints and ease pain.
• Improve Posture and Body Mechanics: Poor posture and improper body mechanics when lifting or standing can put unnecessary stress on your joints. Be mindful of how you sit, stand, and move throughout the day.
• Exercise Regularly: This helps strengthens the muscles that support the joints, improves flexibility, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Examples include swimming, cycling, and walking.

Click to find a GP near you