For many older adults, joint pain can feel like a normal part of getting older. Maybe your knees ache after a morning walk, or your hands feel sore after gardening. For some, it’s a dull, constant ache. For others, it’s a sharp pain or a deep, throbbing feeling. No matter how it feels, joint pain can make daily life harder if it isn’t addressed.
Most of the time, common types of arthritis like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis are to blame. But getting the right diagnosis is really important to figure out the best way to manage it. Did you know that about 58.5 million adults in the U.S. have arthritis? That’s a lot of people dealing with some form of joint discomfort. But not all arthritis is the same. Have you heard of arthritis pain that moves from one joint to another? It’s called migratory arthritis, and learning about it can help you manage it more effectively.
What Is Migratory Arthritis?
Migratory arthritis is when joint pain and swelling don’t stay in one place. Instead of affecting the same joint over time, the discomfort moves from one joint to another. That’s why it’s called “migratory”—because the symptoms seem to travel between joints. For example, you might feel pain in your wrist today, and then a few days later, your ankle or knee starts hurting instead.
Dealing with migratory arthritis can feel unpredictable. You might wake up one morning with pain in a new joint you hadn’t noticed before, making daily life frustrating. Along with the shifting pain, you could also feel warmth or tenderness in the affected joints and even feel tired all over.
What Causes Migratory Arthritis?
Migratory arthritis isn’t a disease on its own. It’s usually linked to another condition. Here are some common causes:
- One possible cause is rheumatic fever, which can develop if strep throat isn’t treated properly. This rare condition can make your joints swell and hurt, with the pain moving from one joint to another.
- Autoimmune disorders, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, might also be to blame. These happen when your immune system, which is supposed to protect you, starts attacking your own joints by mistake.
- Gout is another common cause. This condition occurs when uric acid builds up in your blood, leading to sudden, sharp joint pain that moves from one joint to the next.
- Certain infections, like Lyme disease or bacterial infections, can also trigger migratory arthritis. These infections cause swelling in the joints and can affect more than one over time.
- Lastly, although less common, diseases like Whipple’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or sarcoidosis can also result in moving joint pain as one of their symptoms.
Symptoms of Migratory Arthritis
If you have migratory arthritis, here are some things you might notice:
- Pain that moves from one joint to another
- Swelling or redness around the joints
- Warmth or tenderness in the painful areas
- Stiffness or trouble moving the joints
- Feeling tired or even running a fever
- Skin rashes, depending on the underlying condition
How Long Does Migratory Arthritis Last?
Migratory arthritis can last for a few days to weeks, depending on what’s causing it. What makes this type of arthritis unique is how the pain and swelling seem to “travel” from one joint to another. This shifting pain is a strong clue that migratory arthritis might be the issue.
The length of time it sticks around usually depends on the root cause. If it’s from an infection, the symptoms may improve once the infection is treated. But if it’s linked to something like an autoimmune disease, managing the symptoms might require ongoing treatment. If you notice joint pain that moves rather than staying put, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and care.
Management and Treatment for Migratory Arthritis
The best way to handle migratory arthritis is to treat whatever’s causing it. Once the main problem is addressed, the symptoms often improve. Here are some ways to manage and treat it:
1. Medications
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen can help ease swelling and pain. If the pain is caused by an autoimmune condition like rheumatoid arthritis, doctors might give you special medications like DMARDs or biologics to control the inflammation. Antibiotics might be required if the cause is an infection.
2. Rest and Protect Your Joints
Resting can help your joints heal. Try to avoid overusing the joints that hurt, especially when pain is at its worst. Giving your body a break can prevent more irritation and help it recover.
3. Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can guide you in exercises to strengthen the muscles around your joints. This can make the joints feel more stable and reduce stiffness. It’s a great way to keep your joints moving and feeling better over time.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Keeping a healthy weight can ease the pressure on your joints. Eating a diet full of anti-inflammatory foods, like leafy greens and fish rich in omega-3s, can also help. Drinking lots of water and doing low-impact exercises, such as swimming or yoga, is another way to keep your joints healthy.
5. Simple Pain Relief at Home
Heat and cold packs are a quick fix for sore joints. Applying heat can loosen up stiff joints, while cold packs can reduce swelling and numb, sharp pain. Both are easy techniques you can try at home.
6. Stay Connected with Your Doctor
Regular visits with your doctor are crucial. They’ll help you track your progress and adjust treatments if needed. A doctor can also ensure that the condition causing your symptoms is under control and spot any possible complications early.
Aging with Arthritis: A New Perspective
Getting older doesn’t have to mean living with constant joint pain. While arthritis, including migratory arthritis, can often come with age, knowing more about it can help you take charge and manage it better. Catching the signs early and combining medical care with lifestyle changes can make a big difference, helping you avoid more joint damage and stay comfortable.
Simple habits, like staying active with regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and keeping up with your doctor visits, can make managing arthritis much easier. Growing older may bring challenges, but arthritis doesn’t have to control your life. Paying attention to symptoms like migratory arthritis is a great start to feeling more in control and enjoying your golden years with less discomfort.