Infection and Autoimmune Disorders
When infection strikes the body, its symptoms can appear nearly anywhere--including the joints. Common infections, such as chickenpox, rubella, the mumps and the flu can all result in pain in the joints, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). Lyme disease, rheumatic fever, hepatitis and Epstein-Barr syndrome are also known to cause joint pain. The autoimmune disease lupus is another health condition that causes joint pain, says the NLM.
Injury to the Joint
Breaking a bone in the joint will clearly cause pain, but so can other injuries to the joint. Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons) and bursitis (inflammation of the bursa, a small sac of fluid) can also be responsible for joint pain. Working a joint too hard--from too much activity or vigorous exercise--is another cause of joint pain, as is a sprain or strain of the muscles surrounding the joint, says the NLM.
Managing Joint Pain
No matter what the cause, it is important to allow a damaged or painful joint to heal to alleviate pain. Joint pain can often be alleviated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which the NLM says can reduce swelling and manage pain. Gentle stretching and light exercise can also manage joint pain, but it is good to give an injured joint some time to heal and recover. Try applying heat or taking a hot bath to soothe painful joints, says the NLM. A gentle massage can also help a sore joint to feel better.
