Joint pain is more than just a discomfort—it can significantly disrupt your daily life. Sometimes it’s mild, showing up only with certain movements and disappearing after a while. Other times, even the slightest motion can cause intense pain.

In either case, it’s essential to identify and treat the root cause. At Al-Ahli Hospital’s Rheumatology Department, we can help you:

  • Accurately diagnose your condition.
  • Provide a comprehensive treatment plan.
  • Relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.



Causes of Joint Pain

Joint pain is common and can result from several causes, including:


1. Osteoarthritis

This is the most widespread cause of joint pain, especially among middle-aged and older adults. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions joints wears down, causing the bones to rub against each other—leading to pain. Commonly affected areas include the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

To reduce pain, doctors often recommend weight loss, physical therapy, oral or topical pain relievers (gels and creams), and injections such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid. In advanced cases, joint replacement surgery may be the best option to relieve pain and restore mobility. (1)(2)


2. Injuries

If you've recently suffered a joint injury and the pain suddenly returns, the injury may be the culprit. The injury could involve the joint itself (such as a dislocation), the bones (bruises or fractures), or the surrounding muscles, tendons, or ligaments (like sprains or tears). These injuries often result from direct impact, falls, or sports activities.

It's important to see a doctor to assess the severity and receive the proper treatment, which may include rest, physical therapy, medications, or even surgery. (3)


3. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues, causing pain and inflammation. It typically begins in the small joints of the hands, wrists, and feet and may progress to other areas over time.

RA is often symmetrical—affecting the same joints on both sides, like both knees or both wrists. In addition to joint pain, other symptoms include: (1)(2)

  • Swelling in the joints
  • Morning stiffness or after long periods of rest
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • It may also affect other organs like the heart and eyes


Rheumatoid medications and biological treatments are effective in controlling symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and slowing disease progression.


Psoriatic arthritis is another autoimmune disorder that targets joints, often affecting people with psoriasis (a chronic skin condition).  (4)


4. Gout

Gout causes sudden, intense joint pain along with swelling, redness, and warmth—commonly affecting the big toe. It’s triggered by elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which form crystals in the joints, leading to severe flare-ups.

Gout is treated with anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, and a well-known drug called colchicine. For long-term management, medications that lower uric acid levels are usually prescribed to prevent future attacks. (1)(2)


5. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia leads to widespread body pain that may be constant or come and go. It’s caused by a nervous system disorder that amplifies pain signals, making even light touches or minor movements feel extremely painful.

Other symptoms may include fatigue, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes—all of which can heighten pain sensitivity. Treatment includes antidepressants, some epilepsy medications, and natural therapies like acupuncture or physical therapy. (1)


6. Joint Infections

A severe infection elsewhere in the body can spread to the joints, causing intense pain, swelling, redness, high fever, chills, and fatigue. Although rare, this condition is serious and requires immediate medical attention. (3)



7. General Infections in the Body

Certain infections—especially the flu or viral colds that involve fever—can cause temporary joint pain. You might feel pain in one joint, several joints, or even a general ache throughout the body. (4)



When Should You See a Doctor?

Any joint pain warrants a medical evaluation to identify the cause and begin the right treatment—especially if you notice: (5)

  • Swelling, redness, or warmth in the joint
  • Stiffness
  • Pain with movement
  • Clicking or grinding noises when moving the joint
  • Numbness
  • Difficulty bending or straightening the joint




Book your appointment today and receive expert diagnosis and treatment at Al-Ahli Hospital—one of the top hospitals in Qatar and the Arab world




References