Arthralgia refers to all types of joint pain, although it is usually used to designate non-inflammatory conditions. When a person feels pain in multiple joints, it is called polyarthralgia. There are two main types of arthralgia: chronic and acute arthralgia. Acute arthralgia, which includes sprains, usually appears after an accident or trauma. However, certain types of joint pain are more difficult to explain than others, and may be of psychological or intellectual origin (overwork, etc.). As for chronic arthralgia, it is characterized by persistent pain. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two very common examples. Nonetheless, certain types of chronic arthralgia may be hereditary. Finally, arthritis is another type of joint pain. It is an infection of the joint, and may or may not be caused by an infection.
Arthralgia is characterized by pain of varying intensity on one or more joints in the body. Depending on the cause of the pathology, pain can manifest itself in different ways: if it is sometimes intensified by movements and physical efforts, in other cases it may develop during periods of rest The sensation of pain often takes the form of joint muscle stiffness. This feeling may be transient or recurrent, short-term or persistent. It can last up to an hour for pains of inflammatory type. In certain cases, the pain may affect several body parts.
In general, arthralgia shows no apparent physical symptoms, although it is sometimes accompanied by swelling and redness with burning sensations. In the more severe cases, pain makes movement difficult and may even completely paralyse the patient, as is the case of knee osteoarthritis. If the pain occurs at night, it may also affect sleep.
The care provided to relieve arthralgia differs depending on the cause of the pain. In general, the remedy recommended in case of joint pain is Rhus Toxicodendron, which is very effective in treating rheumatologic ailments. It is thus advised to take 5 granules of the homoeopathic treatment one to four times a day, depending on the pain’s persistence. Another recommended homoeopathic remedy is Luesinum 7 CH, which is particularly adapted for bone pain localized in the skull, ribs and shins, and which are strongly felt during the night. The exact dosage of Luesinum is to be determined by a doctor.
Some homoeopathic remedies are tailored to very specific symptoms. For example, if the pain is caused by movement and physical effort, it can be relieved by taking 5 granules of Bryonia alba 5 CH daily. On the other hand, if the pain occurs during resting periods, especially in the early morning, the most suitable remedy is Rhus toxicodendron 9 CH, of which 5 granules should be taken daily. Some types of joint pains appear due to atmospheric humidity. In this case, the recommended remedy is Dulcamara 9 CH, of which 5 granules should be taken per day. To relieve interphalangeal joint pain, it is advisable to resort to Caulophyllum thalictroides 5 CH. The treatment lasts 3 months, during which the patient needs to be administered 5 granules three times a day.
Mild and temporary pain in the joints can be relieved by taking painkillers or by performing simple gestures like applying ice to the affected area. However, when the pain persists and becomes recurrent, or if it becomes unbearable, it is best to seek medical attention. Thus, pain that has been persistent for a week, or morning joint pain that lasts more than an hour, require medical examination and treatment by a doctor. It is particularly recommended to consult if the affected area presents visible physical symptoms such as swelling, redness, sensation of warmth, or if an open wound has occurred on the joint. Furthermore, if the pain is accompanied by an overwhelming sensation of fatigue, fever or chills, a medical practitioner must intervene. Finally, pregnant women who feel any kind of joint pain should report them to their doctor so that they can be effectively dealt with by resorting to an appropriate treatment.
Good to know: In homoeopathy, Rhus Toxicodendron is mainly recommended for the treatment of rheumatologic ailments and to relieve chronic arthralgia. Not only can this remedy be used for long-term treatments, but it can also help heal an occasional ailment.
