Anti-Inflammatory Medications

• Medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve) and even aspirin are highly effective in treating both inflammation and soreness in joints. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is only effective in treating pain. If you have tendinitis or swelling with your joint pain, take one of the anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, which reduces inflammation and pain by limiting the effects of Cox-2 enzymes on prostaglandins (body chemicals), the body's natural reaction to any irritation or injury in a joint. If your pain is more severe, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids or give you a cortisone shot.
  
  

Natural Remedies

• If you'd rather try an alternative therapy, glucosamine and chondroitin---two substances that compose the type of cartilage found within joints---may be effective in alleviating joint soreness or pain. If your tenderness is due to tendinitis or arthritis, glucosamine and chondroitin can help regenerate existing cartilage and increase synovial fluid (the protective fluid inside the bursa sacs) in the joints.
  
  Capsicum, derived from cayenne pepper, is also used to help joint soreness. Moreover, primrose oil or the type of fish oils found in omega-3 or EFA (essential fatty acid) supplements can help lubricate joints.
  
  

Topical Treatments

• There are topical solutions that can help ease joint soreness and pain---some of these include Bengay, BioFreeze and Icy Hot, all available over the counter. Most of these topical creams contain menthol and eucalyptus oil, which can penetrate the soft tissues of the skin and relieve pain. Capsicum is also available in cream form and can help alleviate inflammation, soreness and pain in various joints.
  
  

Ice

• Ice is one of the most effective treatments for joint soreness. Begin using it within the first 48 to 72 hours after the onset of soreness; apply an ice pack directly to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes. Ice controls pain and inflammation in joints by restricting the flow of blood to the joint (vasoconstriction). You can control a great deal of joint soreness by resting and using ice for several days.
  
  

Warning

• Your joint soreness may be an indication of joint irritation, which can become a chronic condition unless you start treating it regularly. It could also be a symptom of fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis or another health condition, so see a specialist if symptoms persist.