Joint pain is a health problem that is common in both the elderly and the young. The main causes behind joint pain that affect walking and daily activities are:
Osteoarthritis: The main cause of this is the wear and tear of the cartilage between the joints as we age. This causes the bones to rub against each other, causing severe pain and swelling.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its own joints. This causes severe swelling in the joints and morning stiffness. It first affects the small joints of the hands and feet.
Gout: An increase in uric acid in the blood and its deposition in the joints as crystals causes severe joint pain. This is usually felt first in the big toe.
Obesity and strain: When you gain weight, you feel excessive pressure on joints such as the knees and hips. This can lead to rapid joint damage and chronic pain.
Past injuries and infections: If a previous fall or injury to the joints is not treated properly, it can become painful later. Also, severe joint pain is associated with some viral fevers (e.g., chikungunya).
