Can Joint Pain Be Related to Autoimmune Disorders?
Yes, joint pain can be related to autoimmune disorders, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, including the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most well-known autoimmune disorders that cause joint pain. In RA, the immune system targets the synovial membrane the lining of the joints leading to chronic inflammation, pain, swelling, and, eventually, joint damage. This condition often affects smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, but can also involve larger joints like the knees, hips, and shoulders.
Other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, can also cause joint pain and inflammation. These conditions affect various parts of the body, including the skin, organs, and connective tissues, but joint pain is often one of the primary symptoms. Autoimmune-related joint pain is typically characterized by symmetrical involvement (pain in the same joints on both sides of the body) and may be accompanied by other systemic symptoms like fatigue, fever, and rashes. Managing joint pain in autoimmune disorders often requires a combination of lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and other treatments to control inflammation and preserve joint function.
