Achy joints can be caused by a number of conditions. Often, arthritis and conditions that may eventually lead to arthritis are accompanied by other symptoms such as skin rashes, fatigue and fevers. Although prescription medications and exercise therapy can help relieve pain and moderate symptoms, arthritis can be disabling, cause damage to the joints and even lead to other conditions such as spondylitis (see Resources for more on complications).
Osteoarthritis/ Rheumatoid Arthritis
Arthritis is known as an inflammation of one or more of the joints that can lead to achy joints, pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Osteoarthritis most commonly affects just one joint. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint but is common in the wrists and fingers, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Psoriatic Arthritis
According to the Mayo Clinic, some people who develop psoriasis can later be diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. This can cause achy joints, stiffness, swelling and pain. According to the national Library of Medicine, psoriasis is a skin disease that affects the skin and can be caused by an immune system defect. Psoriasis can be chronic and may be triggered by stress, infection, dry skin, smoking, cold weather and medications. Symptoms of psoriasis include itchy, thickened patches of skin that commonly appear on the feet, palms, elbows, knees, scalp, back and face.
Adult Still's Disease
According to the Mayo Clinic, Adult Still's disease is a rare inflammatory condition that causes fevers, achy, swollen joints and pink rashes to appear on the body. The disease is coined after the English doctor George Still, who noted the disease among children in 1896. Although there is no known cure for the disease, treatments may relieve symptoms and reduce complications. Other symptoms of Adult Still's disease can include: a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and muscle pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, an enlarged liver or spleen and inflammation of the lining of the heart or lungs can also result.
