What are the treatments for the condition?

Pain medications, such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can be given to reduce pain. This may be the only treatment needed after an injury, for example.

Other treatments are directed at the cause of the joint pain. Infections may be treated with antibiotics. Gout is often treated with medications such as allopurinol to help improve the metabolism. Autoimmune disorders can be treated with medications that suppress the immune system, such as prednisone. A person with severe osteoarthritis or a bone tumor may need surgery.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, may cause stomach upset, ulcers, or allergic reactions. Any surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If the joint pain is caused by a medication, the pain may go away as soon as the medication is stopped. In these cases, a person can return to normal activities when he or she is able. Someone with arthritis or gout often needs lifelong treatment for flare-ups of joint pain.

How is the condition monitored?

A person with joint pain can usually monitor the pain at home. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider. Other monitoring may be needed for the underlying cause of the joint pain. For example, someone who has cancer affecting the bone may need frequent visits to the healthcare provider and repeated X-rays.