Joint pain is more common than you might think. Although most people will experience it at some point in their lives, there are still many misconceptions and myths surrounding this condition.
Painful joints is often a symptom of a more serious issue. Whether caused by inflammation, infection, or wear and tear, joint pain in the feet can be linked to various pathologies.
That’s why it’s important to understand its origin and who it can affect.
Myth 1: Joint pain only affects the elderly
Is it true that painful joints only affects seniors?
It’s true that aging contributes to the onset of stiffness in the joints. In fact, the proportion of people with arthritis or osteoarthritis is twice as high among those aged 65 and over compared to people aged 45–64.
Reality: The causes of joint pain are as varied as the people who suffer from it. According to the Arthritis Society, 1 in 5 Canadians over the age of 15 reports having arthritis.
Myth 2: The onset of joint pain is always a sign of inflammation
When it comes to polyarticular pain (affecting multiple joints), inflammation is often the most common cause — especially arthritis. Loint discomfort caused by inflammation often comes with distinct symptoms, such as swelling or redness around the affected joints.
Reality: Unlike polyarticular pain, monoarticular joint discomfort is not always caused by inflammation. In young adults, trauma such as sprains or sports injuries may be to blame.
More rarely, joint pain may result from poor blood circulation, joint imbalance in the foot, infections, or even tumors.
Myth 3: Only prescription drugs can relieve joint pain
When joint discomfort is inflammatory, medication can be an effective treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids are often recommended.
Reality: Since painful joints is not always due to inflammation, other treatments may be considered. For traumatic joint pain such as sprains, applying ice is an effective remedy. Therapeutic taping is another option. For more chronic pain, custom orthotics can provide great relief.
Myth 4: You should stop all physical activity as soon as joint pain appears
If joint pain is caused by trauma, it may be best to rest the affected area. High-impact activities like running and weight training should be avoided.
Reality: Low-impact activities like cycling and swimming help maintain fitness while protecting the joints. In fact, regular exercise promotes better blood circulation and limits weight gain, which contributes to faster recovery.
Myth 5: Damp weather increases the intensity of joint pain
Rain, cold, or humidity are often blamed for making joint pain worse. This phenomenon is especially reported among seniors, who often feel pain in their hips, knees, and hands.
Reality: A 2017 U.S. study investigated the influence of weather on painful joints by comparing medical records and weather data.
The result? Despite some minor variations, no significant correlation was found between joint pain consultations and rainy weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joint Pain
What are the first signs of painful joints?
Stiffness, pain during movement or at rest, swelling, or a cracking sensation. Symptoms may vary depending on the joint affected.
Should I see a podiatrist for joint pain?
Yes. A podiatrist can determine whether the cause is inflammatory, mechanical, or postural and recommend the right treatment.
Can custom orthotics help?
Yes. When joint pain is related to poor posture or foot imbalance, custom-made orthotics are an effective solution.
Does cold or humidity make joint discomfort worse?
Some people do notice an increase in symptoms, although there is no solid scientific proof. The sensation, however, is very real for many.
PiedRéseau: Your ally in treating joint pain
Are you experiencing joint pain in your feet? PiedRéseau includes over 40 clinics specialized in treating these conditions. Our multidisciplinary podiatrists are equipped to handle a wide variety of pathologies.
Joint pain should never be ignored. Early care can make all the difference.
Book an appointment at a PiedRéseau clinic for an evaluation and personalized solutions. Be proactive when it comes to your joint health. Take action as soon as pain appears — whether it’s traumatic or inflammatory in origin.