Joint pain

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Joint pain

Definition

Joint pain can affect one or more joints.

Alternative Names

Stiffness in a joint; Pain - joints; Arthralgia

Considerations

Joint pain can be caused by many types of injuries or conditions. No matter what causes it, joint pain can be very bothersome.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes stiffness and pain in the joints. Osteoarthritis involves growth of bone spurs and degeneration of cartilage at a joint. It is very common in adults older than 45 and can cause joint pain.

Joint pain may also be caused by bursitis (inflammation of the bursae). The bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion and pad bony prominences, allowing muscles and tendons to move freely over the bone.

Causes

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Bursitis
Chondromalacia patellae
Gout (especially found in the big toe)
Infectious diseases, including
- Epstein-Barr viral syndrome
- Hepatitis
- Influenza
- Lyme disease
- Measles (rubeola)
- Mumps
- Parvovirus
- Rheumatic fever
- Rubella (German measles)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
Injury, including fracture
Osteoarthritis
Osteomyelitis
Septic arthritis
Tendonitis
Unusual exertion or overuse, including strains or sprains


Skeleton


The structure of a joint

Review Date: 4/24/2008
Reviewed By: Neil J. Gonter, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, Columbia University, NY and private practice specializing in Rheumatology at Rheumatology Associates of North Jersey, Teaneck, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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