Joint pain is a widespread condition that can affect individuals of all ages, often interfering with mobility and daily activities. It may arise from various factors, including injuries, arthritis, inflammation, infections, or underlying medical conditions. The severity of joint pain can vary from mild discomfort to chronic, debilitating pain that significantly impacts quality of life. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, affect approximately 3.7 million Australians, limiting movement and causing persistent discomfort. Common symptoms include swelling, stiffness, redness, and reduced range of motion, which may worsen over time if left untreated. Managing joint pain typically involves lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medications, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention such as joint replacement. Seeking medical advice from a GP can help identify the root cause of joint pain and determine the most effective treatment plan to improve overall mobility and well-being.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC
When to consult a doctor for joint pain?
If joint pain is interfering with your daily activities, you should consult a GP. Consult a GP when:
- Persistent pain: If joint pain lasts for more than a few weeks or gradually worsens.
- Swelling: If your joint appears swollen, warm, or red, indicating possible infection.
- Limited movement: If pain restricts your ability to move the joint normally or perform daily tasks.
- Severe pain or injury: If joint pain follows an injury, fall, or accident and is accompanied by extreme discomfort.
- Stiffness, especially in the morning: If you experience prolonged stiffness, especially after waking up or sitting for long periods.
- Accompanying symptoms: If joint pain is accompanied by fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
What are the common symptoms of joint pain?
Common symptoms of joint pain:
- Pain and stiffness: Discomfort that worsens with movement or after periods of inactivity.
- Swelling and tenderness: Inflammation around the joint, making it sensitive to touch.
- Reduced range of motion: Difficulty moving the affected joint freely.
- Warmth and redness: Signs of inflammation or infection in the joint.
- Clicking or grinding sensation: A feeling of grinding or popping in the joint, often seen in arthritis.
- Weakness or instability: Affected joints may feel weak or unable to support weight properly.
What are the causes of joint pain?
Joint pain can result from various conditions, injuries, and lifestyle factors. Some common causes include:
- Arthritis: The most common cause, including osteoarthritis (wear and tear of cartilage) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune inflammation).
- Injuries: Sprains, fractures, or ligament damage can lead to persistent joint pain.
- Inflammation: Conditions like bursitis (inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around joints) or tendinitis (tendon inflammation) can cause discomfort.
- Overuse or repetitive strain: Excessive use of joints, common in athletes or manual labourers, may result in chronic pain.
- Gout: A build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints, causing sudden and severe pain, usually in the big toe.
- Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause septic arthritis, leading to joint inflammation and pain.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus and psoriatic arthritis can lead to chronic joint pain and swelling.
- Osteoporosis: Weakening of bones increases the risk of fractures, which may contribute to joint discomfort.
- Weight gain and obesity: Extra body weight puts stress on weight-bearing joints like knees, leading to pain and degeneration.
- Fibromyalgia: A chronic pain disorder that affects muscles and joints, often causing widespread pain and stiffness.
Will joint pain affect my mental health?
Yes, chronic joint pain can impact mental well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, or depression. Persistent pain may interfere with sleep, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Seeking medical guidance and incorporating pain management techniques can help improve both physical and mental health. If you’re struggling, Hola Health offers access to 100% fully bulk-billed mental health care plans online.
How long will joint pain last after COVID?
Post-COVID joint pain can last a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the infection and individual health factors. Some people experience lingering inflammation or body aches due to an immune response. If symptoms persist, consulting a doctor is recommended for personalised management.
Can diet affect joint pain?
Yes, an anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce joint pain. Foods that may help include:
- Fatty fish (salmon, sardines)
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts)
- Berries, turmeric, and ginger (natural anti-inflammatories)
Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and refined carbohydrates, as these can increase inflammation.
Will vitamin D deficiency contribute to joint pain?
Yes, vitamin D deficiency can contribute to joint pain and discomfort. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. A deficiency can lead to:
- Weakened bones: increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures
- Inflammation: contributing to joint pain and stiffness
- Muscle weakness: causing poor posture and joint strain.
Will I get a sick certificate online for joint pain?
Yes, if your joint pain affects your ability to work, study, or perform daily activities, Hola Health online doctors or health practitioners can issue medical certificates for work, school or any other institution. Request a sick certificate online now.
How can I speak to an online doctor for joint pain?
You can speak to an AHPRA-accredited online doctor through Hola Health within minutes from anywhere in Australia.
- Simply visit the website or app or click here
- Fill in your details and make the payment
- Connect via video to discuss symptoms, treatment, and management options for joint pain from anywhere in Australia within 15 minutes
- If necessary, receive instant scripts via SMS and referrals or medical certificates via email
What kind of referrals can I get online for joint pain?
You can receive online doctor referrals for:
- Specialists (e.g., rheumatologists, orthopaedic doctors)
- Blood tests to check for inflammation or autoimmune diseases
- Imaging tests (X-rays, or other radiology scans)
Can I get access to an after-hours doctor for joint pain?
Yes, 24/7 access to AHPRA-accredited doctors, including after-hours consultations is available. This allows you to receive medical advice, prescriptions, and referrals without waiting for a clinic appointment.
How can I get an eScript for joint pain?
Get instant access to online prescriptions from licensed doctors or health practitioners from the comfort of your home.
- Start here.
- Click on “Request an instant script”
- Fill in your details and make the payment
- Speak to a medical practitioner regarding your health condition within 15 minutes
- If warranted, receive online scripts via SMS
Are Hola Health’s doctors the same as in-person GPs?
Yes. All Hola Health doctors are AHPRA-registered practitioners, just like those at in-person clinics. They provide the same qualified medical advice, prescriptions, referrals, and medical certificates.
How can we help?
Get 24/7 access to AHPRA-accredited online doctors and healthcare practitioners from the comfort of your home. Here’s how telehealth makes healthcare easier:
- Round-the-clock care: Consult an after-hours doctor anytime, anywhere—no need to wait at a clinic.
- Telehealth appointments: Speak with a qualified practitioner within 15 minutes, no matter where you are in Australia.
- Instant prescriptions: Receive online scripts via SMS and choose home delivery through online pharmacy delivery.
- Online medical certificates: Request a medical certificate online for work, school, or carer duties without leaving home.
- GP referrals: Get referrals for blood tests, pathology, radiology, or specialist care—all online.
- Mental health support: Access bulk-billed mental health care plans conveniently from home.
Talk to a doctor today
Instantly connect to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7 for:
- General consults
- New & repeat scripts
- Referrals
- Medical certificates
- Mental health plans
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