There are a wide variety of conditions and incidents that can cause joint pain. Causes of joint pain include: Arthritis One of the most common chronic joint pain causes is arthritis. Millions of people in the United States are affected by recurring or chronic pain caused by arthritis, and many report experiencing moderate to severe and/or occasional to persistent joint pain because of arthritis. Arthritis-related joint pain affects adults of all ages, ethnicities, sexes and races. Arthritis can significantly impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it.iv Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, two common forms of arthritis, are both known to cause joint pain. Osteoarthritis develops over time when the protective cushion of cartilage in between the bones wears away. Joints become stiff and painful. It's a slow-developing condition that’s more common in older adults and can limit function and mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis is slightly different in that it’s an autoimmune disease that causes swelling and pain in the joints. This chronic disease can cause deformation of the hands and feet—as well as other locations over time— and is associated with inflammation.v Gout Gout is another condition that causes pain in the joints, primarily in the feet. It is extremely painful and typically affects one joint at a time (the big toe joint, for example). Gout usually presents with flares of symptoms that can last for weeks followed by long periods of remission without symptoms. Other joints that can be affected include the other toe joints, ankle, and the knee. Gout symptoms include intense pain, swelling, redness and heat in the affected area. Gout is caused by a condition that creates too much uric acid in the body, which builds up in crystal forms in the joints that can cause pain.vi Tendinitis This joint pain is caused by the inflammation of the tendons, which are the flexible bands that connect the bone and muscle within your joints. People usually get tendinitis in the elbow, shoulder or heel from overuse of those limbs.vii Injuries Simple injures from tripping, sports accidents or other activates are another common cause of joint pain. A sprained ankle, wrist or knee can cause moderate short-term pain, or longer-term joint pain if the injury is more severe joint damage.vii Strenuous Labor or Repetitive Motions If you do strenuous physical labor or repetitive motions are part of your work life, this repetitive motion can cause joint pain.vii Viral Infections Viral infections like the cold or flu can cause joint pain, but it's typically temporary for as long as the sickness lasts.vii