Many people who use medications notice after a while that they start experiencing painful or stiff joints. The question soon arises: could this be caused by my medication? The answer is: yes, some medications have joint pain or muscle pain as a side effect. It’s important to recognize this, but also to know what you can do about it. In this blog, we explain which medications can cause this, how it works in your body, and why you should always discuss it with your doctor. No time to read this blog? Download here!
What you’ll read in this blog
- How medications can cause joint pain
- Examples of medications that can cause pain
- How to recognize that symptoms are caused by medications
- What you can do for medication-related joint pain
- How MotiMove can help
- Frequently asked questions
How medications can cause joint pain
Medications act on processes in your body. Sometimes they cause changes in the immune system, make muscles or tendons more sensitive, or alter the fluid balance in joints. This can lead to pain, stiffness, or even inflammation-like symptoms.
Not everyone develops these symptoms, but the risk is higher if you use medications for a longer period or several types at the same time.
Examples of medications that can cause joint pain
Not all medications cause pain, but there are some groups where it occurs more often:
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins): can cause muscle pain and joint pain.
- Blood pressure medications: some can have painful muscles and joints as a side effect.
- Antibiotics (such as fluoroquinolones): can affect tendons and joints.
- Corticosteroids: with long-term use, they can actually cause joint complaints, while in the short term they reduce pain.
- Chemotherapy and immunotherapy: can cause stiffness and pain due to effects on the immune system.
How do you recognize that your symptoms are caused by medications?
It’s sometimes difficult to determine whether joint pain is caused by medications, or by something else like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid disease, or overuse. Watch for these signals:
- The pain started shortly after you began a new medication.
- The pain increases with a higher dose.
- The pain feels different from your previous symptoms.
- You notice improvement if you (in consultation with your doctor) temporarily stop or switch.
What can you do for medication-related joint pain?
- Never stop on your own! It’s important not to stop your medications without consulting your doctor. Sometimes it’s dangerous to stop suddenly.
- Discuss it with your doctor: clearly explain when the pain started and what it feels like.
- Ask about alternatives: often there are other medications that cause fewer symptoms.
- Support your joints: keep moving within your limits, do light exercises, and pay attention to your posture.
How the MotiMove app can help
Even if your symptoms are caused by medications, movement is an important part of recovery. With the MotiMove app you can:
- Follow gentle exercise videos that keep your joints flexible.
- Track statistics so you can see whether pain increases or decreases.
- Read facts about pain, helping you better understand what’s happening in your body.
- Do calming exercises that help you relax when you have pain or stiffness.
Frequently asked questions
Can any medication cause joint pain?
No, but some medications are known to have this side effect.
Will the pain go away if I stop the medication?
Often yes, but this should always be done in consultation with your doctor. Sometimes it can take a while for your body to recover.
Should I be worried if I get joint pain from medications?
Not immediately, but always discuss it with your doctor. Sometimes there’s a simple alternative.
Does movement help even if the pain is caused by medications?
Yes, gentle movement helps keep your joints flexible and reduces stiffness.
So joint pain can be caused by medications. It’s important to take signals seriously and always discuss them with your doctor. Never stop on your own, but look for solutions together. In the meantime, you can stay active with gentle movement, and the MotiMove app is perfect for that.