Fluid joint pain, caused by inflamed sacs around the joints, is a painful condition that causes localized pain, swelling, and inflammation around large joints. Fluid joint pain is caused by constant use or stress of these major joints, including the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and ankle. To treat it, reduce the use of these joints, soothe it with a cold compress and see a doctor for medical treatment if it persists.
Self-Care Treatments
Use self-care treatments first. Avoid using the inflamed joint and rest it whenever possible. Apply a cold ice pack or compress to the area at least twice a day to reduce swelling. Reduce further pain and inflammation by taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can help reduce fluid joint pain within a couple of weeks.
Drain the Area
If the pain or inflammation does not disappear, a doctor may remove additional fluid from the affected area with a needle and syringe. It is also drained if the area is infected. Called aspiration of the bursa fluid, this procedure removes excess fluid that increases pain, inflammation and soreness. If inflammation is accompanied by infection, antibiotics are prescribed after the procedure.
Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections also help reduce fluid joint pain. Like aspiration of the bursa fluid, cortisone injections are injected to the source of pain, commonly the area surrounding the joint. According to MedicineNet.com, this rapidly reduces inflammation.
Bursectomy
If injections do not reduce fluid joint paint, surgery can help. Called bursectomy, the surgeon cuts into the skin and removes fluid filled sacs around the joints called bursae. Regular function and reduced pain around the joint typically returns after the surgery.
Tags: joint pain, pain inflammation, reduce fluid, reduce fluid joint, around joints, aspiration bursa, aspiration bursa fluid