JOINT PAIN

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Definition

Joint pain can affect one or more joints.

See also:

• Arthritis (inflammation of joints)
• Bursitis
• Muscle pain

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.

Common 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
• Tendinitis
• Unusual exertion or overuse, including strains or sprains

Home Care

Follow prescribed therapy in treating the underlying cause.

For nonarthritis joint pain, both rest and exercise are important. Warm baths, massage, and stretching exercises should be used as frequently as possible.

Anti-inflammatory medications may help relieve pain and swelling. Consult your health care provider before giving aspirin or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen to children.

Call your health care provider if

• You have fever that is not associated with flu symptoms.
• You have lose 10 pounds or more without trying (unintended weight loss).
• Your joint pain lasts for more than 3 days.
• You have severe, unexplained joint pain, particularly if you have other unexplained symptoms.

Reviewer Info: 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., 04/24/2008