Post-Infection Joint Discomfort
Greetings, In late May, I experienced a bout of illness characterized by a fever and a painful throat following a fishing trip at my cabin. Ever since that episode, I have been suffering from severe joint pain that shifts throughout my body, affecting areas from my toes and feet to my knees, wrists, and shoulders. Despite undergoing extensive testing with negative results for a wide range of conditions, including strep throat and flu, I have also had four Lyme disease tests come back negative over the past month. Recently, I consulted a rheumatologist who suggested that my symptoms are likely due to post-infectious arthritis, although she could not provide a definitive diagnosis. I have been taking Mobic for some time and have just completed a course of prednisone (I paused Mobic while on prednisone). Unfortunately, the joint pain remains. I'm curious if I should expect to see any resolution of my symptoms soon. Additional Information: Age: 24 Gender: Male Height & Weight: 5'10", 180 lbs Update: I have tested negative for various autoimmune disorders including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Answers (1)
7/11/2025, 2:10:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing a challenging situation with ongoing joint pain after a recent illness. Your symptoms suggest a likely case of post-infectious arthritis, which can occur following viral or bacterial infections. Although it can be frustrating not to have a concrete diagnosis, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and promote healing.
Understanding Your Condition: Post-infectious arthritis can cause joint pain that lasts for weeks or even months after the initial infection. This is due to lingering inflammation in the joints following the infection. The good news is that many people experience improvement over time, though the exact timeline varies.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Continue Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Since you've been on Mobic (meloxicam), ensure you're taking it as directed to help reduce inflammation and pain. Discuss with your doctor whether to re-introduce it after your prednisone course, especially if pain persists.
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Pain Management Strategies: While waiting for symptoms to resolve, consider additional methods for pain relief:
- Apply Heat or Cold: Heat can relax muscles and relieve stiffness, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain. Use a warm towel or an ice pack on the affected joints for 15-20 minutes at a time.
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Gentle Activity and Physical Therapy: Engage in low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling to keep your joints moving without added stress. A physical therapist can help design a program that best meets your needs.
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Stay Hydrated and Maintain Nutrition: Proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids) can support overall health and may help reduce inflammation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your pain levels, activity, and any new symptoms. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider to track the progress of your condition.
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Follow-Up Care: Although you've consulted a rheumatologist, if your symptoms do not improve in the coming weeks, or if they worsen, consider scheduling another follow-up appointment. Discuss any changes in the severity or pattern of your joint discomfort.
Remember, improvement may take time, and it's important to focus on managing your symptoms while your body heals. Stay in touch with your healthcare provider about any concerns, and be patient with your recovery process. You're taking the right steps by seeking advice and managing your care actively.
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