Introduction
Joint pain is one of the most common discomforts affecting people worldwide, and understanding what causes joint pain is crucial for managing it effectively. Whether it appears as a mild stiffness after waking up or persistent, debilitating pain that interferes with daily tasks, joint pain can significantly impact a person’s mobility, independence, and quality of life. Millions experience it due to age, lifestyle, medical conditions, injuries, or underlying systemic issues—but the challenge is that the reasons can vary widely from one individual to another.
For some people, joint discomfort is temporary, caused by overuse or minor strain. For others, it becomes a chronic issue driven by ongoing inflammation, wear-and-tear, or autoimmune activity. Because what causes joint pain differs from person to person, identifying the root cause becomes an essential step toward relief. Factors such as aging, poor posture, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, viral infections, and mechanical stress all play roles. Some individuals also struggle with more complex questions, such as what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, demonstrating how interconnected symptoms can be.
This article aims to help you understand what causes joint pain by breaking down the most common and medically recognized reasons behind it. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of the various factors involved, how they differ, and why early intervention matters. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your health lifestyle, and when to seek proper medical evaluation.
Understanding Joint Anatomy
To understand what causes joint pain, it helps to know how joints work. Joints are the connections between bones, allowing movement, flexibility, and support. Every joint consists of several important structures:
- Bones: form the main frame of the joint
- Cartilage: smooth tissue that cushions bone ends
- Synovial membrane: a lining that creates synovial fluid
- Synovial fluid: lubricates joints to prevent friction
- Ligaments: connect bone to bone
- Tendons: connect muscle to bone
- Muscles: support movement and stability
Healthy cartilage prevents bones from grinding together, while synovial fluid reduces friction and promotes smooth motion. When any of these structures are damaged or inflamed, pain develops.
Inflammation is one of the most common contributors to what causes joint pain. Inflammation can occur due to injury, infection, autoimmune activity, or chronic stress on the joint. When inflammation strikes, it leads to swelling, stiffness, and discomfort.
Understanding the anatomy helps clarify why so many different factors contribute to what causes joint pain, and why symptoms vary depending on which part of the joint is affected.
Types of Joint Pain
Because what causes joint pain can differ greatly, identifying the type of pain can help narrow down the cause. Joint pain is typically categorized into several types:
Acute vs. Chronic Joint Pain
- Acute pain arises suddenly—often from injury, infection, or inflammation.
- Chronic pain lasts longer than three months and may stem from arthritis or long-term degeneration.
Localized vs. Widespread Joint Pain
- Localized pain affects only one joint, such as the knee or shoulder.
- Widespread pain impacts multiple joints and may be related to conditions like fibromyalgia or autoimmune disorders.
Intermittent vs. Constant Pain
Some people have pain that comes and goes with movement or certain activities, while others experience constant discomfort due to ongoing inflammation.
Inflammatory vs. Mechanical Joint Pain
- Inflammatory pain typically worsens after rest, especially in the morning.
- Mechanical pain worsens with activity and improves with rest, common in osteoarthritis.
Recognizing which category your symptoms fall under can help you better understand what causes joint pain and guide your next steps.
Most Common Causes of Joint Pain
Understanding what causes joint pain requires exploring the conditions most commonly linked to inflammation, stiffness, and mobility issues. Joint pain can be triggered by wear-and-tear, immune system activity, metabolic imbalances, infections, or even lifestyle choices. Below are the primary causes that millions of people experience worldwide.
Most Common Causes of Joint Pain
1. Osteoarthritis (Wear-and-Tear Arthritis)
Osteoarthritis is one of the leading answers to what causes joint pain, especially in older adults. This condition arises when cartilage—the protective cushioning between bones—gradually breaks down over time. Without enough cartilage, the bones begin to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Osteoarthritis commonly affects:
- Knees
- Hips
- Spine
- Hands
- Big toe joints
Risk factors include aging, genetics, obesity, repetitive movement, and old injuries. Many people searching for what causes joint pain discover that osteoarthritis is the most likely culprit, particularly if the pain worsens with activity and improves with rest.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (Autoimmune Condition)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major inflammatory cause of joint discomfort. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining (synovium), causing swelling, pain, and eventually permanent joint damage.
Key symptoms include:
- Symmetrical joint pain
- Morning stiffness lasting over an hour
- Warm, swollen joints
- Fatigue
RA also explains what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, as inflammation affects multiple systems in the body. People may experience an overwhelming feeling of tiredness combined with joint discomfort due to constant internal inflammation.
Because RA is autoimmune, it must be properly diagnosed and managed to prevent long-term complications.
3. Gout
Another strong candidate for what causes joint pain is gout. This condition develops when uric acid levels rise too high, forming sharp crystals inside the joints. These crystals trigger sudden, intense pain known as a gout attack.
Gout typically affects:
- Big toe
- Ankles
- Knees
- Fingers
Risk factors include eating high-purine foods, genetics, alcohol use, obesity, and certain medications. Someone researching what protein causes joint pain may find that high-purine proteins—such as red meat, organ meats, and shellfish—can trigger gout flare-ups.
Gout pain often begins abruptly at night and is known for being excruciating, with the affected joint appearing red, swollen, and extremely sensitive.
4. Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the bursae—tiny fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles—become inflamed. This inflammation makes movements painful and can restrict the range of motion.
Common locations include:
- Shoulder
- Elbow
- Hip
- Knee
Bursitis is usually caused by repetitive motions, prolonged pressure, or trauma. For example, leaning on elbows repeatedly can inflame the elbow bursa. This condition is frequently behind what causes joint pain in people whose jobs involve repetitive physical activity, kneeling, or heavy lifting.
5. Tendonitis
Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons, the thick cords connecting muscle to bone. It occurs when tendons become irritated due to overuse, strenuous activity, poor posture, or repetitive motions.
People often experience tendonitis in:
- Shoulders (“rotator cuff tendonitis”)
- Elbows (“tennis elbow” or “golfer’s elbow”)
- Knees (“jumper’s knee”)
- Achilles tendon
Tendonitis frequently explains what causes joint pain for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals whose work requires repetitive arm or leg movements. The pain typically worsens with motion and improves with rest.
6. Injuries: Sprains, Strains, and Fractures
Physical injuries are another major factor in what causes joint pain. Even minor sprains can cause swelling, stiffness, and long-term discomfort if the ligament does not heal properly.
Injuries may involve:
- Sprains: ligament damage
- Strains: muscle or tendon damage
- Fractures: broken bones affecting joint alignment
Untreated injuries may lead to chronic instability or early-onset arthritis, making them one of the most overlooked reasons behind long-term joint pain. This also connects to what causes joint pain after iron infusion in rare cases—because joint swelling or inflammatory responses may be triggered in individuals with underlying immune or injury-related sensitivity.
7. Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain. While it doesn’t directly damage joints, it often causes people to wonder what causes joint pain when the real issue lies in nerve sensitivity.
Fibromyalgia symptoms include:
- Widespread pain
- Extreme fatigue
- Brain fog
- Tender points across the body
This condition overlaps with what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, as both symptoms frequently appear together. Fibromyalgia alters how the brain processes pain signals, making sensations feel amplified even without joint damage.
8. Infections (Septic Arthritis)
Infections can cause sudden and severe joint inflammation known as septic arthritis. Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections infiltrate the joint space, damaging tissues rapidly.
Symptoms include:
- Intense pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Fever
- Inability to move the joint
This is a medical emergency. Understanding what causes joint pain is critical here because delayed treatment can lead to permanent joint damage.
9. Lupus and Other Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune conditions like lupus cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues, including joints, skin, and organs. Lupus-related joint pain typically involves swelling, stiffness, and tenderness.
Autoimmune conditions often overlap with unexplained symptoms, prompting people to ask not just what causes joint pain, but also what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, since autoimmune flares drain energy.
10. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis affects individuals with the skin condition psoriasis. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling due to chronic immune system activity.
Features include:
- Sausage-like swelling in fingers and toes
- Nail changes
- Lower back pain
This autoimmune-related condition is another key reason behind what causes joint pain, especially when dermatological symptoms are present as well.
Lifestyle Factors, Age-Related Causes & Environmental Triggers
Understanding what causes joint pain goes beyond medical conditions. Daily habits, environmental influences, and the natural aging process play major roles in how joints feel and function. Many people experience discomfort not because of a disease, but because of how they move, eat, rest, or go about their daily routines. Below are significant lifestyle and age-related triggers that help explain what causes joint pain for millions of individuals.
Lifestyle Factors That Cause or Worsen Joint Pain
1. Obesity and Excess Weight
Excess body weight puts tremendous pressure on weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and lower back. Each extra pound can add up to four pounds of pressure on the knees. Over time, this constant strain accelerates cartilage breakdown and makes inflammation more likely.
Additionally, fat tissue releases inflammatory chemicals, further contributing to joint discomfort. This inflammation is often overlooked when people ask what causes joint pain or why their pain worsens even without physical activity.
For some individuals, excess weight also contributes to metabolic issues—raising questions like what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, since inflammation affects both energy levels and joint health.
2. Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle
Hours spent sitting, slouching, or working at a desk can stiffen joints, weaken muscles, and misalign the body. Poor posture places uneven stress on the spine, shoulders, hips, and knees.
A sedentary lifestyle is a common answer to what causes joint pain, especially for people who feel stiffness after sitting or waking up in the morning. When joints don’t move regularly, synovial fluid circulation decreases, causing friction and discomfort during movement.
3. Overuse From Exercise or Repetitive Movements
On the opposite end of the spectrum, excessive movement can also explain what causes joint pain. Overuse injuries happen when you repeatedly perform the same motion—whether lifting weights, running, kneeling, or typing.
Athletes, construction workers, factory employees, and even office workers frequently experience joint pain because of repetitive strain. Overuse contributes to tendonitis, bursitis, and early wear-and-tear, making it a leading lifestyle-based explanation for what causes joint pain in younger individuals.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Diet doesn’t just influence weight—it affects joint health directly. Deficiencies in nutrients such as Vitamin D, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants can contribute to inflammation.
Someone researching what protein causes joint pain may be referring not only to dietary triggers like purine-heavy meats, but also to the lack of collagen-rich or anti-inflammatory foods. A nutrient-poor diet weakens joints, slows recovery, and increases sensitivity to pain.
5. Dehydration
Hydration affects synovial fluid—the lubricant that keeps joints functioning smoothly. When the body is dehydrated, synovial fluid thickens, reducing lubrication and increasing friction.
Many people overlook dehydration as a cause of joint stiffness, yet it’s one of the simplest answers to what causes joint pain, especially in hot climates, active individuals, or those who consume high amounts of caffeine or salty foods.
6. Age-Related Causes of Joint Pain
Aging is one of the most influential factors behind what causes joint pain. As we age, natural processes affect joint structure, flexibility, and function.
1. Natural Cartilage Degeneration
Cartilage wears down over time. Even without injury or arthritis, aging alone may thin cartilage, reducing shock absorption and increasing friction.
This gradual degeneration often becomes the earliest sign of what causes joint pain, especially in the knees, hips, and hands.
2. Reduced Collagen Production
Collagen is essential for strong cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Aging slows collagen synthesis, making joints weaker and less resilient.
This process may also help explain why some individuals experience concerns like what causes joint pain after iron infusion, especially when their joints are already sensitive due to aging or low collagen levels.
3. Slower Tissue Repair
With age, the body takes longer to recover from injuries or strains. Minor issues can linger, leading people to question what causes joint pain even after mild activity.
Reduced repair capacity also increases susceptibility to tendonitis, muscle strain, and joint instability.
4. Decline in Circulation
Healthy blood flow nourishes joint tissues. As circulation decreases with age, joints receive fewer nutrients and less oxygen, contributing to stiffness and discomfort.
Together, these factors create a clear picture of what causes joint pain as people get older.
7. Environmental & External Causes
Environmental conditions can strongly influence how joints feel from day to day. Many people notice their discomfort worsening in certain weather, workplaces, or physical conditions.
1. Cold Weather and Humidity
Drops in temperature and changes in atmospheric pressure can increase joint stiffness. Cold weather thickens synovial fluid, making movement more difficult.
Humidity can worsen swelling, leading many to wonder what causes joint pain during seasonal changes.
2. Occupational Hazards
Jobs that involve heavy lifting, bending, kneeling, climbing, or repetitive motions are major contributors to joint pain. Construction workers, factory operators, and healthcare providers often experience joint issues due to years of repetitive strain.
These work-related factors often provide clear evidence of what causes joint pain for many adults.
3. High-Impact Sports and Joint Wear
Activities such as running, basketball, gymnastics, and weightlifting can put repeated stress on joints. While exercise is beneficial, high-impact sports may accelerate cartilage wear.
This is especially relevant for individuals investigating what protein causes joint pain, since athletic diets sometimes include high-purine proteins that may trigger gout episodes.
4. Improper Footwear and Misalignment
Shoes without proper support affect posture, gait, and joint alignment. Poor alignment can increase stress on knees, hips, and the spine, providing another layer to understanding what causes joint pain in everyday life.
Hormonal Causes, Systemic Conditions & The Role of Inflammation
Joint pain is often more complex than it appears. For many individuals who search for what causes joint pain, the answer may lie not only in the joints themselves but also in hormone imbalances and underlying medical conditions that affect the entire body. Systemic issues can trigger inflammation, nerve sensitivity, or metabolic disruptions that eventually manifest as joint discomfort.
Below are major internal and hormonal contributors to joint pain that frequently go unnoticed.
Hormonal Influence on Joint Pain
Hormones play a major role in regulating inflammation, cartilage health, and overall musculoskeletal function. When hormone levels shift, joint tissues can become more sensitive or inflamed, offering insight into what causes joint pain for many people.
1. Menopause and Estrogen Decline
Among women, menopause is one of the top explanations for what causes joint pain during midlife. Estrogen has anti-inflammatory properties and helps lubricate joints. When estrogen drops, inflammation becomes more common and cartilage receives less protection.
Many women report:
- Stiffness in the hands
- Aching knees and hips
- Morning joint pain
- Swelling or tenderness
These changes are sometimes mistaken for early arthritis but are often hormonally driven.
2. Thyroid Disorders
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can both contribute to joint pain. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, tissue repair, and bone maintenance. When these hormones are imbalanced, the body may struggle to maintain joint health.
Symptoms that help people understand what causes joint pain from thyroid issues include:
- Muscle weakness
- Fluid retention
- Stiffness
- Increased sensitivity to pain
Hypothyroidism may also worsen what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, as low energy and inflammation occur simultaneously.
3. Adrenal Fatigue and Cortisol Imbalance
Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which triggers inflammation and affects connective tissue health. Over time, stress can amplify discomfort, especially in weight-bearing joints.
This cortisol-driven inflammation contributes to what causes joint pain, particularly in people experiencing prolonged stress, poor sleep, or burnout.
How Systemic Conditions Cause Joint Pain
Systemic diseases impact the entire body, including joints, nerves, muscles, and circulation. Understanding these conditions is essential for identifying what causes joint pain beyond localized injury or wear.
1. Diabetes
Diabetes is strongly connected to joint pain for several reasons:
- High blood sugar damages nerves
- Inflammation increases
- Reduced circulation affects joint health
- Glycation stiffens connective tissues
Diabetic neuropathy, trigger finger, and frozen shoulder are common complications. Some people with diabetes also experience swelling and discomfort that help explain what causes joint pain in metabolic disorders.
2. Kidney or Liver Disorders
When the kidneys or liver cannot filter waste properly, toxins and uric acid may build up in the body. This buildup can trigger inflammation, swelling, or gout-like symptoms.
Individuals with metabolic disorders often wonder what causes joint pain and why discomfort appears suddenly — toxic accumulation is a major reason.
This also ties into rare cases of what causes joint pain after iron infusion, as individuals with compromised kidney or liver function may retain excess iron, causing temporary inflammatory responses.
3. Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by ticks and is a significant cause of severe joint inflammation.
Symptoms include:
- Swollen joints
- Migrating joint pain
- Fatigue
- Stiffness
Because Lyme disease affects the immune system and connective tissues, it’s a common answer to what causes joint pain, especially for those living in forested or rural areas.
4. Cardiovascular Issues
Poor circulation prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching joint tissues. Blood vessel problems can cause:
- Leg and knee pain
- Swelling
- Weakness
- Numbness
When circulation is impaired, joints struggle to repair themselves, adding another layer to understanding what causes joint pain in men and women with heart or vascular conditions.
5. Cancer and Cancer Treatments
Some cancers cause systemic inflammation that affects the joints. More commonly, chemotherapy and radiation can lead to:
- Stiffness
- Muscle aches
- Inflammation
- Bone pain
This inflammatory response helps explain what causes joint pain during or after cancer treatment. In some cases, medications used to treat anemia during cancer therapy also answer what causes joint pain after iron infusion, since the immune system may react to abrupt changes in iron levels.
How Inflammation Plays a Central Role
Across medical, hormonal, and lifestyle-related causes, inflammation is a major unifying factor behind what causes joint pain.
1. Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation
- Acute inflammation occurs after injury or infection — swelling, heat, and redness.
- Chronic inflammation develops slowly and can damage joints over time.
Chronic inflammation contributes to:
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Autoimmune flare-ups
- Tendon issues
- Muscular stiffness
People struggling with chronic inflammation often wonder what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, since inflammation drains energy and stresses the body.
2. Inflammatory Chemicals and Joint Damage
The body releases cytokines — signaling molecules that accelerate inflammation. When cytokines increase, they can break down cartilage, irritate the synovial membrane, and lead to swelling.
Understanding these inflammatory pathways is crucial for anyone trying to understand what causes joint pain, especially when discomfort seems unrelated to injury.
3. Inflammation in Autoimmune Conditions
Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis involve overactive immune responses that target joint tissues.
This relentless inflammation explains:
- Persistent morning stiffness
- Swelling
- Heat
- Throbbing or aching
These conditions also overlap with what protein causes joint pain, especially if diet-related inflammation contributes to flare-ups.
Diagnosis, Natural Management, When to Seek Help & Conclusion
After understanding the various potential causes of joint pain, the next step is to identify how professionals diagnose these issues and how individuals can support their joints naturally. Whether joint pain is mild or persistent, having the right approach can significantly improve mobility, comfort, and long-term health.
When Joint Pain Signals a Serious Condition
Not all joint pain is harmless. Sometimes, the symptoms indicate an urgent or serious underlying issue. Recognizing these warning signs helps people determine what causes joint pain and when immediate medical care is necessary.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Suddenly, severe joint pain
- Redness, warmth, or swelling around the joint
- Fever accompanying joint discomfort
- Inability to move or bear weight on a joint
- Joint deformity after injury
- Rapidly worsening pain
These symptoms may indicate septic arthritis, fractures, autoimmune flare-ups, or metabolic emergencies. Some individuals experiencing unexpected reactions—like wondering what causes joint pain after iron infusion—should also seek prompt clinical evaluation to rule out inflammation or allergic responses.
Pain that spreads to multiple joints, especially when paired with fatigue, can also signal systemic inflammation or hormonal disorders. These situations often overlap with what causes extreme fatigue and joint pain, making early diagnosis important.
How Joint Pain Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing what causes joint pain requires a combination of medical history, physical exams, and diagnostic tests. Because joint discomfort can stem from widely varied conditions, healthcare providers use comprehensive methods to uncover the root cause.
1. Physical Examination
Doctors assess:
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Range of motion
- Joint stability
- Muscle strength
This helps identify whether symptoms stem from structural issues, inflammation, or nerve involvement.
2. Imaging Tests
Imaging provides a clearer view of internal structures and is essential when determining what causes joint pain.
Common imaging methods include:
- X-rays — detect bone spurs, fractures, and cartilage wear
- MRI scans — reveal soft tissue injuries
- CT scans — detailed bone imaging
- Ultrasound — helpful for tendon and ligament evaluation
3. Blood Tests
Blood panels help identify:
- Autoimmune markers
- Inflammatory markers
- Uric acid levels
- Vitamin D deficiencies
- Thyroid abnormalities
These tests often clarify concerns like what protein causes joint pain, especially when high-purine diets or metabolic imbalances are involved.
4. Joint Fluid Analysis
A sample of synovial fluid may be taken to check for:
- Infections
- Gout crystals
- Inflammatory markers
This procedure is particularly useful when investigating what causes joint pain in sudden, severe flare-ups.
Natural Ways to Manage Joint Pain
While treatment depends on diagnosis, many natural and supportive strategies can help reduce discomfort and improve joint function. These approaches do not replace medical care but can support long-term joint wellness.
1. Stretching and Mobility Exercises
Gentle stretching increases flexibility, reduces stiffness, and improves circulation. Consistent movement helps prevent the stiffness associated with what causes joint pain in sedentary individuals.
Examples include:
- Yoga
- Light stretching routines
- Physical therapy exercises
- Mobility drills
2. Strength Training
Building muscle around joints reduces strain and improves stability. Strong muscles help protect cartilage and prevent injuries.
Low-impact strength exercises include:
- Resistance bands
- Bodyweight squats
- Light dumbbells
- Pilates
3. Heat and Cold Therapy
- Heat relaxes tense muscles and increases blood flow.
- Cold reduces inflammation and numbs acute pain.
These simple therapies are effective for many causes of joint discomfort and can be tailored based on what triggers symptoms.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Nutrition plays a major role in what causes joint pain and how severe it becomes. Eating anti-inflammatory foods helps reduce swelling and support joint tissues.
Helpful foods include:
- Fatty fish (omega-3s)
- Berries
- Leafy greens
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Avocado
- Nuts and seeds
This section also ties into what protein causes joint pain, since choosing lower-purine proteins like chicken, tofu, and legumes may help reduce inflammation for some individuals.
5. Hydration
Drinking enough water supports synovial fluid lubrication and helps reduce stiffness. Dehydration is commonly overlooked in discussions about what causes joint pain, yet it plays a crucial role in daily comfort.
6. Healthy Posture & Ergonomic Adjustments
Correct posture reduces unnecessary pressure on joints. Ergonomic workspaces help prevent repetitive strain injuries that lead to long-term discomfort.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
If you’ve tried natural strategies and still struggle to understand what causes joint pain, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis prevents worsening damage and improves long-term outcomes.
Seek medical advice when:
- Pain persists longer than two weeks
- Swelling or warmth continues
- Pain interferes with walking or sleep
- You experience unexplained bruising or stiffness
- Joint pain appears with rash or fever
- There’s sudden pain after iron infusions or medication (to explore what causes joint pain after iron infusion)
Chronic pain should never be ignored. Identifying what causes joint pain early can prevent more serious complications in the future.
Conclusion
Joint pain is a complex condition with many potential causes. From arthritis and autoimmune disorders to daily habits, hormonal changes, and aging, understanding what causes joint pain is the key to finding relief and protecting long-term mobility.
Because joint pain can stem from inflammation, metabolic imbalance, repetitive motion, or systemic disease, identifying the root cause allows individuals to address discomfort more effectively. Whether the issue relates to overuse injuries, autoimmune conditions, diet-related triggers like what protein causes joint pain, or sudden reactions such as what causes joint pain after iron infusion, knowing the source empowers better decision-making.
Natural strategies—like exercise, stretching, ergonomic adjustments, hydration, and an anti-inflammatory diet—can support joint health. But persistent symptoms or issues such as what cause extreme fatigue and joint pain should be evaluated by a medical professional.
By staying informed, listening to your body, and taking proactive steps, you can better understand what’s behind your symptoms and work toward a healthier, more comfortable, and more active life.