8 Common Causes of Joint Discomfort and Pain

Joints are the connections where bones meet, enabling movement across various parts of the body. Common joints include shoulders, elbows, hips, wrists, and ankles. Persistent joint pain can lead to discomfort and limit mobility. It can stem from injuries or underlying health conditions. Recognizing the causes is essential for proper treatment. Below are eight frequent reasons behind joint pain:

Arthritis
A leading cause of joint discomfort, arthritis affects over 100 types, mainly impacting seniors over 65. It involves inflammation and gradual symptom development, sometimes even affecting younger individuals and children.

Osteoarthritis
A common form of arthritis caused by cartilage breakdown, leading to bone-on-bone contact, friction, and joint pain especially during movement.

Sprains and Strains
Injuries from overexertion or trauma are frequent causes, varying from minor to severe and requiring immediate medical attention if pain or swelling is intense.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Often overlooked, CFS can cause prolonged joint pain, especially in women in their 40s and 50s, linked to environmental factors and hard to diagnose.

Bursitis
Inflammation of bursae, fluid-filled sacs near joints, causes pain and increased friction, often due to injury or damage.

Spondylitis
This arthritis affecting the spine is more common among women, leading to persistent pain, stiffness, and potentially disability, often inherited.

Bone Infections
Fungal or bacterial invasion, typically from bloodstream infections like Staphylococcus aureus, can damage bones and surrounding tissues if untreated.

Tendinitis
Inflammation of tendons connecting muscles to bones causes localized joint pain, resulting from aging, injury, or other health issues.