Joint Pain: 12 Possible Causes (& How to Treat + Prevent)

Joint pain is a frequent physical complaint that often improves with simple home remedies such as applying hot compresses to the affected area. Persistent joint pain accompanied by swelling or a fever may signal more significant health issues like arthritis or tendinitis.

The causes of joint pain vary widely, including inflammatory conditions like gout and bursitis or systemic viral infections like dengue. Diagnosing the specific origin of joint pain often requires a medical evaluation involving bloodwork or imaging tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Effective management of joint pain typically relies on physical therapy, rest, and specific medications to reduce inflammation and regain limb strength. Preventing future joint pain is possible through regular low-impact exercise and a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support long-term skeletal health.

Why do I have joint pain?

The most common causes of joint pain are:

1. Arthritis

Arthritis is the main cause of joint pain and can occur due to excess weight, direct trauma and natural wear and tear on the joint. It can lead to symptoms such as pain, difficulty moving the affected joint and deformity.

What to do: To treat arthritis, physiotherapy and medication may be prescribed by your doctor. More serious cases may require surgery. Treatment may vary from patient to patient, however, which is why the doctor may order further testing to determine the type of arthritis present. 

2. Gout

Gout is an inflammatory disease caused by excess uric acid in the blood. It ends up accumulating in the joints and leads to symptoms such as joint pain, swelling and local redness. Uric acid often builds-up in the big toe, leading to pain when walking or placing your foot on the ground.

What to do: Be sure to consult a rheumatologist or general practitioner to start treatment to relieve symptoms. Gout medicine your doctor may prescribe includes anti-inflammatories and medication that helps to reduce uric acid levels. 

3. Tendinitis

Tendinitis is characterized by tendon inflammation. Tendons are a structure that connects muscles to bones, and inflammation of the tendon can lead to pain, difficulty moving the affected limb, swelling and local redness. Tendinitis is most often related to repetitive movements.

What to do: It is important to rest the affected area to prevent worsening of inflammation and symptoms., Analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications can also help to relieve swelling and joint pain, while physiotherapy may be advised to restore mobility.

4. Sprained knee

A knee sprain can cause pain in the knee joint. Abnormal twisting, sudden movements or direct trauma to the knee can lead to excessive stretching of the ligaments, resulting in symptoms such as intense knee pain, swelling and difficulty bending the knee.

What to do: Immobilize and rest the affected knee and apply ice on the area to reduce swelling and inflammation. Check out other ways to relieve knee pain.

5. Epicondylitis

Epicondylitis is the inflammation of the wrist extensor muscles that is often caused by repetitive strain. Pain is typically felt in the elbow and can radiate to the forearm. This pain worsens when performing movements like opening a door, combing your hair, writing or typing. You may also notice reduced strength in the arm or wrist, which can make holding a glass, for example, difficult.

What to do: In these cases, you are advised to stop the performing repetitive movements that triggered the condition. and to undergo physiotherapy to relieve pain. Additionally, medication may be prescribe to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended. 

6. Bursitis

Bursitis is characterized by inflammation of the bursa, which is a small fluid-filled sac found inside many joints. These sacs act as cushions to reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles, and their inflammation can lead to localized pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected limb.

What to do: Bursitis treatment typically involves physiotherapy to prevent joint stiffening and maintain movement. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications for around 7 to 14 days, as needed.

7. Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the body and joints. It leads to swelling and inflammation of the joints, as well as difficulty moving joints, decreased local strength and pain that is worse immediately after waking up. 

What to do: It is important to adhere to treatment as prescribed by a rheumatologist. It usually involves the use of medication to relieve pain and reduce swelling. It is important to undergo physiotherapy to reduce stiffness and promote optimal functioning. 

8. Infection

Infection with the viruses that cause dengue, Zika and Chikungunya can lead to inflammation of various joints in the body, resulting in joint pain throughout the body. Other symptoms may also appear depending on the virus, such as fever, tiredness, pain around the eyes, loss of appetite and malaise.

What to do: If these infections are suspected, do not take over-the-counter medications and proceed immediately to the nearest emergency room. The treatment normally prescribed by the doctor consists of rest, hydration and medications that help relieve symptoms. However, if, your symptoms do not improve or worsen even with treatment, it is important to return to the hospital for further testing.

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9. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. This leads to joint pain, stiffness, and a grating sensation when moving the affected area. It most frequently affects the joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

What to do: Treatment usually focuses on managing symptoms and improving joint function. Your doctor may recommend low-impact exercises, weight management to reduce pressure on the joints, and physical therapy. Medications like analgesics or topical creams can also be used to relieve pain.

10. Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, including the joints. Joint pain is one of the most common symptoms and is often accompanied by swelling, morning stiffness, and sometimes a rash on the face. The pain often moves from one joint to another and can affect both sides of the body at once.

Read more about lupus symptoms and how they can present.

What to do: It is essential to consult a rheumatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Management typically involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and medications that help regulate the immune system. Resting during flare-ups and avoiding excessive sun exposure are also important steps. Many patients may also benefit from maintaining a lupus diet to reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

11. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain throughout the body. While it involves the soft tissues, the pain is often felt most intensely in and around the joints. Other frequent symptoms include constant fatigue, sleep disturbances, and memory or mood issues.

What to do: Treatment is usually focused on reducing pain and improving sleep. Doctors often prescribe specialized fibromyalgia medications to help manage how the brain processes pain signals. Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, and stress management techniques are also highly effective.

12. Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling that can range from mild to severe. A unique symptom of this condition is "sausage-like" swelling of the fingers and toes, along with changes in the appearance of the nails.

What to do: You should see a rheumatologist to start treatment early and prevent permanent joint damage. Treatment often includes anti-inflammatory drugs and specific medications to control the underlying inflammation. Physical therapy is also recommended to keep the joints flexible.

How to treat

When joint pain lasts for over 7 days, you may need to take medication such as analgesics or anti-inflammatories, as prescribed by a doctor. Topical ointments such as diclofenac can also help relieve pain and promote movement, however, you should see a doctor for assessment before starting treatment

You can apply a cold compress on the joint to relieve symptoms, however longterm functioning is best preserved through physiotherapy sessions, completed at least 3 times a week. Low-impact exercise, such as Pilates or water aerobics, may also be beneficial.

How to prevent

To prevent joint pain, you should exercise regularly, performing low-impact exercises, such as walking, cycling or swimming. Maintaining  an ideal weight, especially after the age of 50, may also be beneficial, as well as a diet rich in fish and seafood, as these contain substances that help promote joint health and reduce inflammation.