Although very common, joint pain is frequently misunderstood and sometimes difficult to diagnose. Here is a comprehensive look at the many aches and pains that affect the human body, and some potential ways of dealing with them.

Essentially, any injury that harms the ligaments, bursae, or tendons surrounding the joint can cause joint pain, and also can harm the bones, cartilage and ligaments inside the joint.
Joint pain also accompanies infection and arthritic conditions, and can indicate joint tumors. Joint pain in all its forms is also called arthralgia.
Aside from arthritis, conditions typically associated with joint pain are bursitis, sickle cell anemia, bursitis, aseptic necrosis, and osteochondritis dissecans. People suffering from steroid withdrawal also experience joint pain.

Other conditions that prompt joint pain include rare conditions such as synovial sarcoma and bone tumors, cartilage tears, fractures, septic arthritis, sprains and tendonitis.

Joint pain can be caused by any number of factors and conditions. Although there are many causes for joint pain, there are just as many methods of treatment available to help people deal with and successfully overcome these conditions.

Medications commonly used for joint pain include those such as acetaminophen, Tylenol and others; ibuprofen, Advil, Children's Advil/Motrin, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin, PediaCare Fever, etc.; naproxen, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox, Aleve; acetylsalicylic acid, Aspirin, Ecotrin; Analgesics, Antipyretics; and Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Many of these products can be attained over the counter, though some may require prescriptions. It is always important to use these medications as directed, always reading the label for special directions regarding usage.

Some people also opt for all-natural treatments, such as creams, patches, massage treatments, supplements, etc. All-natural treatments are growing increasingly popular, and research is currently being done to uncover more naturalistic treatments. Only a trained physician can help determine exactly which treatment is right for you, but as with dietary choices, many people are finding that naturally based joint pain treatments are truly the way to go.

Other treatments do not come in a box or bottle, but are rather lifestyle options that can be easily integrated into the course of everyday life. Relaxation, sleep, and light exercise can help many varieties of joint pain, as can a clean, positive lifestyle and strong attitude. Of course, all this is easier said than done in this busy world; still, your health depends on healthy living.

Again, only a trained physician can help you determine the best course of action.