Does reactive arthritis cause joint pain?

Reactive arthritis is inflammation that can develop after an infection, often in the bowel or urinary and genital tract. The immune response can continue to inflame joints after the original infection has improved. Pain may affect a knee, ankle, foot, or another joint, and the area can feel warm, swollen, or difficult to move. Some people also develop heel pain, back pain, eye irritation, or urinary symptoms. Joint pain has many causes, so the symptom alone does not show that reactive arthritis is present.

Arrange a medical appointment if joint pain begins after diarrhoea, a urinary infection, or genital symptoms, or if it is limiting walking or daily activities. Make a note of the joints involved, recent infections, medicines, rashes, eye symptoms, and any fever. Gentle movement within comfort can help prevent stiffness, while forcing a painful joint can aggravate symptoms. A clinician may examine the joints and discuss tests or treatment aimed at inflammation and any infection that needs attention.

Seek urgent medical care for a hot, very swollen joint with fever or feeling unwell, because a joint infection needs prompt assessment. Get same-day care for a painful red eye, new light sensitivity, or blurred vision alongside joint symptoms. Prompt review is also sensible when you cannot bear weight, pain escalates quickly, or a joint becomes suddenly difficult to move.

Ask whether your recent illness could be connected to the joint symptoms, how to protect mobility, and which treatments may be suitable for you. Ask what eye, urinary, skin, or bowel symptoms should be reported promptly.