Moderate joint pain can be a sign of arthritis. Arthritis can be caused by different processes in the body. Early arthritis can feel like joint pain with certain movements. Usually, these movements are predictable and the pain is elicited commonly by these movements. High-impact activities like jumping or running can also cause pain. Moderate arthritis involves a more constant pain sensation that begins to limit daily activities and causes stiffness at times. Severe arthritis often involves dull/aching pain and episodes of intense fatiguing pain.