Arthritis or a sports injury? How to tell what may be causing your joint pain

When joint pain develops, it’s not always easy to know whether it is related to arthritis, an injury or even a combination of the two. Arthritis often develops gradually, while many sports injuries begin after a specific movement or activity. But the symptoms can overlap, making it difficult to tell the difference.  

“Patients often assume that joint pain is either arthritis or the result of an injury, but there can be significant overlap,” said Ken O. Kenneth-Nwosa, MD, a sports medicine specialist at UT Health San Antonio. “Understanding when the pain began, what activities affect it and whether there was a specific injury can help us determine what may be causing the symptoms.”

An evaluation is needed to determine the cause of joint pain, but how and when symptoms developed can provide some helpful context.

1. Arthritis often develops gradually.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It develops over time as the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones within a joint changes and wears down.

Pain and stiffness may gradually become more noticeable, particularly after periods of inactivity or with certain activities. Symptoms may increase over time as the condition progresses.

2. Sports injuries often have a specific starting point.

Some sports injuries have a clear starting point, such as twisting a knee, landing awkwardly or changing direction. Others develop gradually due to repetitive stress, improper technique or overuse.

Depending on the type of injury, symptoms may include pain, swelling, weakness, instability or difficulty moving the joint.

3. Arthritis and injuries can feel similar.

Both arthritis and sports injuries can cause pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced range of motion. An injury can also occur in a joint that already has arthritis.

Because of this overlap, symptoms alone may not provide a clear diagnosis. An orthopaedic evaluation can help determine what is causing the pain and whether imaging or other testing is needed.

4. An injury does not automatically mean surgery.

Many orthopaedic injuries can be treated without surgery. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, treatment may include activity modification, physical therapy, medications, injections or other approaches.

Surgery may be recommended for certain injuries or when other treatments do not provide adequate relief.

5. Pay attention when joint pain persists.

Whether pain develops gradually or follows an injury, persistent symptoms should not simply be dismissed.

Pain, stiffness or swelling that continues or begins to interfere with exercise, work, sleep or everyday activities may warrant an orthopaedic evaluation. Identifying the underlying cause can help determine which treatment options may be appropriate.

Understanding the cause can help guide treatment

Arthritis and sports injuries can affect the same joints and cause many of the same symptoms, but they may require different approaches to treatment. Determining what is causing the pain is an important first step in choosing the appropriate treatment. 

Whether your joint pain started with an injury or developed gradually over time, UT Health San Antonio’s orthopaedic and sports medicine specialists can evaluate your symptoms, identify the cause and help determine the appropriate next step.

To request an appointment with an orthopaedic or sports medicine specialist, call 210-450-9300. Learn more about orthopaedic care at uthealthcare.org/ortho.