What are Common Causes of Chronic Joint Pain?

Of the common causes of chronic joint pain, arthritis and its various forms top the list. Other degenerative conditions such as lupus, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis are also common causes of chronic joint pain. Gradual wear and tear of the joints, stemming from obesity or overexercise, is also a common cause. While chronic joint pain is a very unpleasant ordeal, pain typically can be managed with drugs, physical therapy, and surgery.

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic joint pain. Chief among the various forms of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which occurs when the cartilage begins to erode. As cartilage wears away, it causes the joints and bones to create friction with one another. The result can be severe joint pain, along with bone spurs, which can cause an individual's joints to feel extremely tender and stiff.

There is no permanent cure for arthritis, but there are various methods for treating the condition. Various over-the-counter and prescription drugs are available to ease pain. Cortisone injections can also provide relief in some cases. Physical therapy is useful as well, along with walking aids. If a doctor deems it necessary, one also can undergo surgery to replace or help reinforce bones and joints.

The next most common cause of chronic joint pain likely is physical activity. Concerning obese individuals, the amount of weight supported by joints can literally be crushing, particularly to the knees and ankles. On the other hand, people who exercise frequently may also experience ankle and knee pain. Athletes who repeatedly use a particular joint, such as baseball pitchers, are also at risk to develop joint pain.

By losing weight, overweight individuals can greatly alleviate pain in the joints. Those who workout can cut out of their routine whatever is causing problems. In cases in which joint pain is caused by physical weight or strenuous or repetitive activity, pain can be medicated or treated with surgery.

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own muscle tissue as well as tendons and ligaments. Certain forms of lupus cause the body to inflame tissue and joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Unfortunately, conducting surgery on the joints won't affect lupus patients as it might with arthritis. Drugs, however, can help alleviate the pain. Lupus was once a far deadlier disease, but modern medicine has helped make it livable, with proper treatment.

Osteoporosis occurs when the bones become brittle and thin, making them highly susceptible to breaking. Joint pain is a natural complication of this disease. Women and the elderly, who are more likely to be deficient in calcium, are the most vulnerable groups for developing osteoporosis. Drugs, hormones, and physical therapy can help strengthen bones, diminishing joint pain and decreasing the chance of breaking any bones.

Fibromyalgia is one of the rarer causes of chronic joint pain. Those who suffer from this condition experience pain in muscle tissues, tendons, and ligaments throughout the body. In many cases, it's difficult to figure out exactly what causes the condition. The condition may be treated with drugs and physical therapy, but there is no cure.