When should you see a doctor about joint pain?

Joint pain may result from a strain, osteoarthritis, inflammation, infection or an illness affecting several parts of the body. Fibromyalgia, vitamin D deficiency, sickle cell disease and dengue fever can include widespread or limb pain, but symptoms overlap. The location, pattern, stiffness, swelling, fever and recent illness help guide assessment.

Rest the affected joint from activities that worsen pain, but keep gentle movement within comfort if you can. Note which joints hurt, when symptoms began, morning stiffness, swelling, rash, fever, recent injury, travel and new medicines. Do not exceed label directions for pain medicine, and ask a pharmacist if you have other conditions or take regular treatment.

Seek urgent care for a hot, very swollen joint with fever, sudden inability to bear weight or move the joint, severe pain after injury, deformity, numbness, or a cold or pale limb. Get prompt assessment for joint pain with unusual bleeding, severe weakness, persistent vomiting or a spreading rash.

Ask whether examination, blood tests or imaging is needed, what activity is safe, and how long to try home measures. Ask whether weight management, vitamin D supplementation or anti-inflammatory medication is suitable for your circumstances.