Diseases of the joints are the most common diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Complaints of patients that hurt the joints of the legs, indicate the existence of pathologies in the joint system, which can be provoked by various factors. Such a disease affects people of all ages.
Why do joints hurt on the legs?
The causes of unpleasant sensations can be such ailments:
- rheumatoid arthritis ;
- gout;
- osteoarthritis.
To determine the diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo a series of examinations, including fluoroscopy and the delivery of tests. The physician will be able to diagnose the symptoms on the basis of the symptoms and results of the studies.
Pain in the joints of the legs with osteoarthritis
The onset of pain is often due to the presence of arthrosis - a disease characterized by wear and dehydration of the cartilage. The elderly are most susceptible to the disease, but if it is hereditary, it can also occur in children. The disease affects the joints:
- knees;
- hip;
- joints of feet.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis are:
- soreness with pressure on the joint;
- impaired mobility;
- increased pain after active movements;
- sometimes crunches may be heard;
- pain in the development of the disease is intensified and sometimes occurs at night.
Pain in rheumatoid arthritis
Often, the cause of pain is rheumatoid arthritis. It is sometimes confused with arthrosis. However, they differ in that after exercise the pain is weakened, and with arthrosis intensifies. This disease can also occur in people in adolescence, regardless of the presence of hereditary predisposition.
Rheumatoid arthritis is autoimmune in nature. Severe pain in the joints of the legs manifests itself due to infection. Symptoms include:
- symmetrical nature of joint damage;
- redness of the skin in the painful area;
- the intensification of pain in the morning and its gradual decrease in the evening.
Pain in the ankle with gout
Gout is a disease that affects the joints of the legs, and the main pains are concentrated on the thumb. The cause of the development of pathology is a violation of the assimilation of purines, substances that form uric acid, intended for the withdrawal of metabolic products. Acid in the event of a violation of the exchange of purines, due to excessive consumption of fatty and meat, is retained in the body, and its salts are collected in the joints. The signs of the disease are:
- paroxysmal pains, which, as they develop, are of a permanent nature;
- swelling of the toe;
- increased pain at night;
- elevated temperature.
Joints of legs or foots hurt at pregnancy
To provoke pain any of the listed diseases is capable. However, another factor leading to this disease is the increased content of the hormone relaxin, which increases the elasticity of the ligaments of the pelvis, which is important for normal delivery. But the hormone affects all connective tissues, because even the usual weight can seriously burden the joints.
Aching joints hurt - what to treat?
It is necessary to make an appointment with a traumatologist, neurologist, rheumatologist. These experts will help to make the correct diagnosis. The method of combating joint pain and treatment depends on the disease that caused it:
- The fight against gout involves the reduction of uric acid, through the use of diet and drugs.
- Patients with osteoarthritis prescribe analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, prescribe warming and laser therapy.
- With rheumatoid arthritis, prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy, massages, mud treatment and swimming.