Joint pain is one of the most frequent complaints among people of all ages. It can significantly affect your ability to perform everyday tasks, whether it’s mild discomfort or a debilitating ache. From the knees and hips to shoulders and fingers, joints play a crucial role in mobility and overall function. When these joints hurt, it causes physical discomfort and can also impact mental well-being.
This blog will explore the common causes of joint pain, who is most at risk, and when you should seek medical help. Whether you’re experiencing a temporary ache or chronic pain, understanding the root causes can help you take appropriate action.
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
One of the most prevalent causes of joint pain is osteoarthritis, especially among older adults. This degenerative joint disease occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Commonly affected joints:
- Knees
- Hips
- Hands
- Spine
Osteoarthritis can be worsened by obesity, genetics, joint injuries, or overuse due to repetitive motions.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks its own joint tissues. This results in inflammation, pain, and eventual damage to the cartilage and bone inside the joint.
Symptoms may include:
- Swelling in multiple joints
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Fatigue and fever
RA usually affects symmetrical joints on both sides of the body, such as wrists, knees or shoulders.
3. Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It can cause sudden and severe attacks of pain, often at night.
Common symptoms:
- Intense joint pain, often starting in the big toe
- Redness and swelling
- Warmth around the affected joint
Gout is more common in men and can be triggered by high-purine foods (like red meat and seafood), alcohol, or dehydration.
4. Injuries and Trauma
Injuries are another major cause of joint pain. Accidents, falls, or overuse injuries can lead to:
- Sprains and strains
- Ligament tears (e.g., ACL tear)
- Meniscus injury
- Dislocated joints
- Fractures near the joint
These injuries often require evaluation and sometimes surgical treatment by an orthopedic specialist.
5. Tendinitis
Tendinitis occurs when a tendon (the tissue connecting muscle to bone) becomes inflamed due to repetitive movement or overuse. It is particularly common in people who play sports or have physically demanding jobs.
Common types:
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Achilles tendinitis
- Rotator cuff tendinitis
Tendinitis usually causes pain around the joint that worsens with movement.
6. Bursitis
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these sacs become inflamed (a condition known as bursitis), they can cause joint pain and swelling.
It often occurs in:
- Shoulders
- Elbows
- Hips
Repetitive motions, prolonged pressure, or joint injury can trigger bursitis.
7. Infections
Sometimes, joint pain is caused by an infection, known as septic arthritis. This can happen when bacteria or viruses enter the joint space, leading to rapid inflammation and damage.
Signs of an infected joint:
- Intense pain
- Fever
- Swelling
- Redness
This medical emergency requires immediate treatment with antibiotics and possibly drainage.
8. Lupus and Other Autoimmune Diseases
Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis are autoimmune diseases that affect the joints, often leading to chronic pain and inflammation. They may also involve symptoms in other organs.
9. Overuse and Poor Posture
Repetitive movements, long hours at a desk with poor posture, or standing for extended periods can lead to joint stress. Over time, this can result in chronic joint pain, especially in the neck, back, knees, and shoulders.
10. Obesity
Excess body weight puts additional stress on the joints, especially those in the lower body, such as the knees, hips, and lower back. Over time, this pressure can accelerate joint degeneration and increase pain.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While minor joint pain may resolve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter medications, you should consult a doctor if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Swelling that doesn’t improve
- Limited joint movement
- Fever with joint pain
- Sudden, severe pain
In such cases, it is wise to consult an experienced specialist. If you’re in Dhaka, you can find the best orthopedic doctor in Dhaka to help diagnose and manage your joint issues effectively.
Final Thoughts
Joint pain can arise from various causes, ranging from minor injuries to chronic autoimmune diseases. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a huge difference in managing symptoms and preventing long-term damage. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step toward effective relief.
If joint pain is affecting your quality of life, don’t ignore it—seek medical help. A trusted orthopedic doctor can provide expert advice, proper treatment, and, if necessary, surgical options tailored to your condition.