Arthralgia refers to all the pain felt in one or more joints. When a person feels pain in several joints, it is called polyarthralgia. There are two main types of arthralgia: chronic arthralgia and acute arthralgia. Acute arthralgia, which includes sprains, usually appears following an accident or trauma. However, some categories of arthralgia are more difficult to explain than others, which may be of psychological or intellectual origin (overwork, etc.). As for chronic arthralgia, it is distinguished by the persistence of pain. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are very common examples. Nevertheless, some chronic arthralgias can be hereditary. Finally, arthritis is another type of arthralgia. It is an inflammation of the joint that can be of infectious or non-infectious origin.
Symptoms of arthralgia
Arthralgia is manifested by pain of varying intensity on one or more joints of the body. Depending on the cause of the pathology, pain can manifest itself in different kinds: while some intensify with movement and effort, others develop at the time of rest. The sensation of pain often presents as stiffness of the muscles of the joint. This sensation can be temporary or recurrent, short-lived or persistent. It can last up to an hour for inflammatory pain. In some cases, the pain can affect several parts of the body.
Generally, arthralgia shows no apparent physical signs, yet it is sometimes accompanied by swelling and redness with burning sensations. In more severe cases, the pain makes it difficult to move around or really paralyzes the patient, as is the case with osteoarthritis of the knee. If the pain occurs at night, it may also affect sleep.
How to treat arthralgia with homeopathy?
The care provided to relieve arthralgia is different depending on the cause of the pain. Generally speaking, the recommended remedy for arthralgia is Rhus Toxicodendron, which is effective in treating rheumatological conditions. The intake of 5 granules should be repeated 1 to 4 times a day depending on the persistence of the pain. Another homeopathic remedy indicated is Luesinum 7 CH, which is particularly suitable for bone pain located in the skull, ribs and shins, and which is strongly felt during the night. The exact dosage of Luesinum is to be discussed with the doctor.
Some homeopathic remedies are tailored to specific symptoms. For example, if the pain is caused by movement and effort, it can be relieved by taking Bryonia alba 5 CH at a rate of 5 granules per day. On the other hand, if the pain occurs more at rest, especially in the morning when you wake up, Rhus toxicodendron 9 CH is more suitable at the rate of 5 granules per day. There is also joint pain that develops because of humidity. In this case, the recommended remedy is Dulcamara 9 CH, at a rate of 5 granules per day. Caulophyllum thalictroides 5 CH is recommended for the relief of interphalangeal arthralgia. The treatment lasts 3 months, at a rate of 5 granules, to be taken three times a day.
When to see a doctor?
Mild and temporary pain in the joints can be relieved by painkillers or simple gestures such as an ice cube. But when the pain persists and becomes recurrent, or if it becomes unbearable, it is best to go to the doctor. Thus, pain that has persisted for a week, or morning joint pain that lasts more than an hour, should be seen and treated by a doctor. Consultation is all the more recommended if the affected area shows apparent signs such as swelling, redness or a feeling of heat, or if an open wound has occurred on the joint. Also, if the pain is accompanied by a great feeling of fatigue, fever and chills, the doctor must intervene. Finally, in the event of pregnancy, any pain in the joints should be reported to your doctor for appropriate treatment.
