Joints and ligaments take a beating in everyday life, it is true; but what exactly is joint pain and how can it be relieved?

Some of the afflictions the body can encounter under physical stress are joint and ligament pain, including but not limited to common joint and ligament pain, tendonitis and bursitis.

Typically, joint pain is frequently associated with joint stiffness from internal swelling, dull pain that can sharpen when the joint is loaded or exerted, fractured or dislodged.
Ligament pain, by contrast, is characterized by the tenderness of the area afflicted, with the pain worsening if the ligament is loaded.

Tendonitis indicates inflammation in the muscle tendon, while bursitis is distinguished by pain in an area where a tendon rubs against bone or other structures. Both are accompanied generally by local swelling, and may feel warm and tender to the touch.

Because hyperpronation (a process in which the arches drop from non-weight bearing (sitting with your feet on the ground) to weight bearing (standing), the ankles roll in and your heels lean in) causes internal rotation of the leg and forward rotation of the pelvis, more torque is displaced across the joints so they can become out of whack or misaligned.

To protect the knees and joints from additional injuries, reduce hyperpronation; in the case of a meniscus tear, arthroscopic surgery may be needed.

Even a small amount of hyperpronation can cause joint pain, and knee injuries from misalignment are very common. Damage usually happens gradually until pain suddenly strikes.

How does one eliminate the aches and pains associated with these conditions? A number of simple everyday remedies can you help you handle the pain.

Icing the inflamed area several times a day is a good start, as this can reduce inflammation. It is also a good idea to rest the afflicted joint and shield it from further injury or harm, to accommodate the natural healing process. Improving body mechanics and posture is important in particular to facilitate improved joint alignment.

Posture also plays an integral role in battling joint pain. Pay heed to your sitting positions, and do not sit at your desk with your legs twisted under the chair or crossed over one other. These positions may cause prolonged tension on ligaments, and may prompt or perpetuate pain.

Above all, live sensibly and get plenty of rest. These steps alone can ease your joint, muscle and ligament pain, putting you on the road to better health and a pain-free lifestyle.