According to MedlinePlus, arthritis--specifically osteoarthritis--is a wear-and-tear breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Cartilage breaks down in the hips, back and joints, and the bones in these joints rub together and cause significant symptoms. This occurs because bone spurs, or humps of bone, form in the joints and rub together, which may further damage the joints. A patient with arthritis pain should understand pain symptoms that are particular to osteoarthritis.
Dull, Achy Pain
Pain associated with osteoarthritis is typically described as a dull ache, states the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. A dull ache is the most typical form of pain because swelling and inflammation in the hips, back or other joints increases the pressure in the joint which is sensed as a dull ache by nearby sensory nerves. In addition, the dull aching sensation typically worsens when excessive pressure is placed on the joint, such as when standing or walking, because excessive pressure from a patient's weight increases the pressure in the hips, back and other joints. Treatment involves reducing the swelling and inflammation, and strengthening muscles around the hips, back and other joints.
Pain Worse in the Morning
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that a patient with arthritis pain in the hips, back and joints experiences pain that is typically worse in the morning and improves with light activity. Joints become stiff overnight due to a lack of use and low production of joint lubrication fluid. As a patient awakens and begins moving around, the body produces lubricating fluid in the joints, which can help relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis. Therefore, performing early morning exercise may help relive morning symptoms.
Sharp Pain With Grating
In some cases, a patient with osteoarthritis in the hips, back and joints may experience a sharp pain, particularly when a patient hears or feels a crack, grinding or popping in a joint. This occurs because bone spurs in the joint rub together, which can cause them to grate, click or pop. When these bone spurs rub together, a patient may experience a sharp pain that may stay in the hip, back or other joints, or may radiate to nearby anatomical structures. In this case, medications and physical therapy may help reduce this symptom; however, surgery may be necessary to remove bone spurs and prevent worsening sharp pain.
