Joint Pain

Joint pain refers to discomfort, aching, or soreness in one or more joints. It can be mild and temporary, or chronic and disabling. Pain may be accompanied by stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, or warmth around the joint. Joint pain is extremely common and may result from everyday strain, injury, or medical conditions such as arthritis.

• Injuries: Sprains, strains, dislocations, overuse injuries.
• Arthritis:

Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear damage to cartilage)

Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune joint inflammation)

Gout (uric acid crystal buildup)

• Other conditions: Lupus, bursitis, infections, Lyme disease.
• Risk factors: Age over 40, obesity, family history of arthritis, previous joint injuries, high-impact activities, autoimmune disorders.

See a healthcare provider if joint pain persists for more than a few weeks, limits daily activity, or is associated with swelling, redness, warmth, or stiffness. Seek urgent medical care if joint pain follows a serious injury, is accompanied by sudden swelling, fever, or inability to move the joint.