Common Causes of Joint Pain

Joint pain is a common problem that is often characterized by aches, soreness, or discomfort in your shoulders, knees, elbows, or hips. In most instances, you don’t need to see a doctor. Your body can naturally heal most causes of joint pain. If, however, you have joint pain that goes on for too long, consider seeking the help of William L Yancey MD. Keep reading to learn about the causes of joint pain. 

1.      Arthritis

Arthritis is a common cause of joint pain and osteoarthritis mostly affects older adults. It is not always apparent from the start and it affects the joints in your knees, hips, wrists, and hands. Arthritis causes the breakdown of cartilage, leaving your joints with no cushion.

When there are no shock absorbers, you are likely to experience joint pain. Rheumatoid arthritis mostly affects women. Over time, it causes the debilitation and deformation of your joints, leading to pain and inflammation. It may lead to the buildup of fluids in your joints. 

2.      Gout

Gout causes the deposit of crystals in your joints. It results in severe joint pain and swelling. The symptoms of gout often manifest in the big toe first.

3.      Viral Infections

Some viral infections may lead to joint pain. Such viruses include hepatitis, mumps, and influenza. If you have a viral infection that is accompanied with a fever, you are likely to experience joint pain. 

4.      Strains and Sprains

Strains and sprains are common types of joint injuries. They are some of the most common causes of joint pain. The pain and inflammation may be so severe that you can no longer use your joints. A strain is a stretch of your muscles or tendons. A sprain, on the other hand, refers to extreme tearing of the ligaments. 

5.      Fibromyalgia

Joint pain is a symptom of fibromyalgia. The complex condition is said to be caused by overactive nerves. 

6.      Lupus

The autoimmune disease causes pain and inflammation. It occurs when your immune system attacks your body’s tissues, leading to stiff and painful joints. 

7.      Vitamin D Deficiency

If you have a severe deficiency of Vitamin D, you may have joint pain and inflammation. Painful joints are the only symptom of this problem. 

8.      Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursae causes this condition. The fluid-filled sacs are located all through your body. They act as cushions between your soft tissues and bones. Bursitis is a common problem for joints that are responsible for repetitive motions. They include knees, elbows, and shoulders. Its symptoms include stiffness, joint swelling, pain, and impaired mobility. 

If you have joint pain, consider seeking the help of a doctor as soon as possible. If your pain is the result of an injury, seek immediate help if it is accompanied by: 

  • Deformed joints
  • Sudden swelling
  • Reduced mobility
  • Severe pain

Even though joint pain is not always an indication of severe health problems, it can be a sign of arthritis or other complex issues. It is important to get the opinion of a doctor.