Common Causes of Joint Pain
Several factors can lead to joint pain, with the most common causes being:
- Arthritis: The leading cause of joint pain is arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between joints wears down, causing bones to rub against each other. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the joint lining, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Injuries and Trauma: Sprains, fractures, or dislocations can damage joints and cause pain. Injuries may also lead to longer-term issues like post-traumatic arthritis.
- Gout: This type of arthritis is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe but can also impact other joints like the ankles and knees.
- Bursitis and Tendonitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs around the joints) or tendons (which connect muscle to bone) can cause joint pain, especially with repetitive movements.