Rheumatic diseases and pain in joints not only affect the joints causing arthritis, but can also affect the muscle and tendon of the body.  Soft tissue rheumatism can be classified as regional (bursitis and tendonitis) or generalized (fibromyalgia).

Bursitis and tendonitis are inflammations of the bursae and tendons that join muscles.  Fibromyalgia is the generalized aching, stiffness, and fatigue of the muscles and soft tissues with multiple painful spots in specific muscle areas. There is pain in joints, but no inflammation of the muscles. 

Bursitis and tendonitis affect men and women of all age groups, whereas fibromyalgia affects more women than men, mostly between the ages of 20 and 40.

If you are having symptoms of chronic joint pain, an exam is required to properly diagnose and treat you.