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Joint Disorders Health Channel

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Skeleton
The structure of a joint

Joint pain

Definition

Joint pain can affect one or more joints. See also arthritis (inflammation of joints), muscle pain, and bursitis.

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

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

What to expect at your health care provider's office

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask you about your medical history.

Continue reading this article

More Articles

Arthritis (11 Videos, 9 Images, 1 Slideshow) Average Rating: (Doctor-Reviewed information)
Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, which results in pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited movement. There are over 100 different types of arthritis. See also: Joint pain Reviewer: Steve Lee, DO, Rheumatology Fellow, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.Date: 07/27/2007
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