What Are Common Causes of Joint Pain?
Joint pain is a frequent ailment that can arise from various causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic diseases. Common causes include osteoarthritis, the wear-and-tear type of arthritis that commonly affects older individuals, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease causing inflammation of the joints. Other causes can include gout, infections, tendinitis, and injuries such as sprains and fractures.
Activities that place repetitive stress on a joint, such as running, tennis, or manual labor, can also lead to joint pain. Medical conditions such as lupus and fibromyalgia, which affect the immune system and muscles respectively, can manifest as joint pain too. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, which can range from medication and physical therapy to lifestyle changes and, in severe cases, surgery.