Joint pain in adults — when it's wear-and-tear vs something more

When persistent joint pain needs a doctor — soon

• ·Hot, red, swollen joint (especially with fever)
• ·Morning stiffness lasting >1 hour
• ·Joint pain with rash, weight loss, or fatigue
• ·Sudden joint pain with inability to bear weight
• ·Multiple small joints involved symmetrically

This is general guidance, not a diagnosis. If you have any of the above, book a same-day consult or seek urgent care.

Common causes a physician will look for

• ·Osteoarthritis — knees, hips, hands; worse with use
• ·Rheumatoid arthritis — symmetrical small-joint swelling, morning stiffness
• ·Gout — sudden severe pain, often big toe
• ·Vitamin D deficiency — diffuse bone and joint ache
• ·Post-viral arthralgia (common after chikungunya, dengue, viral fevers)

What to expect at the consult

Joint examination, CBC, CRP/ESR, uric acid, RA factor, anti-CCP, Vitamin D — selected based on the pattern. Many patients improve with the right diagnosis, the right exercise plan, and a small number of correctly chosen medications.

Frequently asked

Should I see a physician or a rheumatologist first?

Start with a physician — most joint pain has a clear cause and treatment without specialist referral. The few that need rheumatology are easy to recognise on examination.