Sudden Joint Pain in Children
- Dr. Nathan Wei, board-certified rheumatologist, says sudden joint pain can be due to transient factors that are relatively easy to address, such as bursitis or tendinitis, or caused by complicated long-term issues such as cancer, systemic lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Sudden onset joint pain should be of concern, particularly if it is accompanied by serous symptoms other than pain.
- Wei describes sudden joint pain as only one indicator of a potential illness. He also suggests looking at the joint for swelling and redness, which may be an indication of inflammation or injury to a tendon. He also suggests examining for range of motion and feeling the joint to see if it is hot or there are any notable nodules or cysts associated with the joint. Inflammatory conditions often cause morning stiffness that is alleviated with movement and warming of the joint.
- There are numerous possible causes of rapid onset joint pain in children. These include tendon problems such as bursitis or tendinitis. Other causes of joint pain can include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Infection is another cause of joint pain. Infections in the joint can be the result of the tendon being infected. According to Med-to-Go, infections can also affect the bone, translating into pain in the bones of the joint.
- Treatments vary depending on the cause of the joint pain, according to Wei. For episodes of bursitis and tendinitis, NSAID pain relievers are often prescribed, along with rest of the joint and physical therapy. However, issues like rheumatoid arthritis may involve not only NSAIDs, but also the use of biologics if the RA is in the more advanced stages. Osteoarthritis is usually treated with over-the-counter or prescribed anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen. Infections of the joint are usually treated with antibiotics.
- Although some causes of joint pain cannot be avoided, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or infection, other causes can be prevented, according to chiropractor Deborah Pate. Warming up thoroughly before exercising can help avoid bursitis and tendinitis. Stretch tendons and muscles so that they are completely flexed and warm before and after exercise to prevent tearing of tendons and muscles.