Not all joint pain is the same. Here’s how to quickly differentiate:
Inflammatory pain (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) typically comes with morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, joint swelling, redness, and may include fatigue or low-grade fever. Movement often relieves the pain.
Non-inflammatory or mechanical pain (e.g., osteoarthritis) usually causes stiffness under 30 minutes, worsens with activity, and lacks swelling or systemic symptoms. Labs like ESR and CRP are usually normal.
