Unexpected Joint Swelling and Pain
Background Information: Female, 23 years old, Height: 5’10, Weight: approximately 180 lbs Non-smoker, No substance abuse Nexplanon contraceptive implant since October 2024 Greetings, I am reaching out regarding a series of troubling symptoms that have persisted since last Monday (a full week). Initially, I experienced a two-day migraine, which is quite unusual for me. This discomfort then evolved into a lingering dull headache accompanied by pain in my neck and upper shoulder area. On the fourth day, I sought assistance at urgent care, where the medical staff suggested my symptoms were likely due to prolonged screen time, as I work remotely. They prescribed me Flexeril for relief. The following day brought about new developments; I began to feel pain particularly in my elbows and knees, with the elbows being the most affected—extending them caused discomfort. Currently, the inflammation in my knees and ankles has worsened to the point where walking is quite difficult. My elbows continue to ache, along with discomfort in my fingers, wrists, and even my jaw. Additionally, I have been experiencing sporadic pain in my ribs and hips, which feels like a pinching sensation, although it doesn’t persist. In conjunction with all these issues, I am still suffering from headaches, which are particularly severe in the mornings. My neck and back discomfort has improved since starting the Flexeril, yet the joint pain and headaches remain unresolved. I have scheduled an appointment with my primary care physician for later this week. I would greatly appreciate any advice or thoughts on my situation, as the joint pain appears to be escalating. I anticipate a diagnosis that may point to stress, anxiety, or the repercussions of sitting at a desk for extended periods due to my remote work. Thank you for your help, medical professionals!! 🩺
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 6:50:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for reaching out about your concerning symptoms. It sounds like you're experiencing a range of pain and swelling in your joints, along with persistent headaches that have significantly impacted your mobility and comfort. Let’s break this down.
Main Points:
- You are facing joint swelling and pain, particularly in the elbows, knees, and hands.
- Persistent headaches and neck discomfort have also been troublesome.
- An appointment with your primary care physician is already scheduled, which is crucial for a proper evaluation.
Explanation:
Your symptoms may stem from several possible causes, including inflammatory conditions, repetitive strain due to desk work, or even stress-related issues. Given the variety of areas affected (joints, neck, headache), it’s essential to approach this systematically. While stress and prolonged sitting can contribute, the extent of widespread joint pain and swelling, especially with the worsening nature of your symptoms, may suggest the need for further evaluation for conditions like arthritis or other systemic issues.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Monitor and Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting when pain intensifies and any potential triggers. Record any swelling, stiffness times (morning vs. evening), and how long these episodes last. This information will be valuable for your physician.
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Rest and Modify Activity: Limit activities that worsen your joint pain. Try to take frequent breaks if working at a desk. Implement gentle stretching or mobility exercises to reduce stiffness without straining the joints.
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Ice and Elevate: For swollen joints, particularly your knees and elbows, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling. Elevating affected limbs can also help manage symptoms.
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Pain Management: If Flexeril is not providing enough relief, over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen (if you’re not allergic and can take it safely) might help with both pain and inflammation. Ensure you're following dosage guidelines.
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Keep Your Physician Updated: Be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail during your appointment, including any changes since your last visit and the overall impact on your life. Ask about potential tests to rule out inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis, lupus).
While it’s understandable to lean towards stress or remote work as culprits, it’s equally essential to consider other underlying health issues given your symptoms' severity. You’re doing the right thing by seeking medical attention, and I encourage you to share all your symptoms openly with your doctor. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or need more support.
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