Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread through the bite of an infected deer tick. The condition can cause a range of symptoms, from fever to fatigue. While the symptoms of Lyme disease can vary from person to person, many are left wondering if the joints can be affected. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between Lyme disease and joint pain, and explain the treatment options for those who’ve been infected.

For same-day acute Lyme disease treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Short Hills. Our team of medical providers can examine your symptoms and make the best recommendations for care. You can check-in online or simply walk into the clinic today.

How To Recognize Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a common condition in areas where the presence of ticks is high. The infection is transmitted to humans through an infected tick, and causes a wide range of uncomfortable and even painful symptoms. The symptoms are generally not noticeable immediately after a tick bite. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, it’s important to seek immediate medical treatment to avoid serious complications.

Common lyme disease symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Muscle & joint pain

Does Lyme Disease Cause Joint Pain and Stiffness?

The answer is yes, joint pain is a common symptom of Lyme disease. In fact, the CDC reports that the resulting joint pain, or Lyme arthritis, accounts for approximately one out of every four Lyme disease cases. The joints can be affected at any stage of the disease, and typically affects large joints like the knees. In most cases, the pain will move from one joint to another overtime, and often causes swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Lyme disease can cause joint pain because of the overall inflammation triggered by the body's natural response to the tick’s bite. Inflammation is regarded as a natural response to fight off an infection, but can cause damage to the affected area.

How Lyme Disease is Treated

Fortunately, joint pain from Lyme disease is treatable. The earlier treatment occurs, the better chance there is of preventing long-term damage to the joints. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for Lyme disease, as they are effective at clearing the infection and reducing inflammation in the joints. Visiting an urgent care center is a great option for quick treatment options. Typically, the course of antibiotics is sufficient to treat early-stage Lyme disease. However, more severe infections may require further treatment.

In addition to antibiotics, there are other treatments that can help alleviate joint pain during the recovery from Lyme disease. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers and get plenty of rest to reduce inflammation and residual joint pain. It’s important to note that joint pain is not always indicative of Lyme disease, and is a symptom of more serious health concerns. Please work with your primary care or healthcare provider to determine the cause of your specific symptoms.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Short Hills for Treatment

If you suspect that you’ve been infected with Lyme disease, or have been experiencing joint pain, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Short Hills for care. Our medical team can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including acute Lyme disease. The center is open seven days a week and accepts most major health insurance plans. Just walk-in today! If you have further questions about Lyme disease joint pain, please call us directly at (973) 671-5350.