Migrating joint pain is a self-explanatory affliction in which a patient experiences pain and stiffness in one or more joints in multiple areas, sometimes simultaneously.  The symptoms and causes are similar to migratory arthritis but not as severe or systemic.  The primary concern with patients suffering from chronic migratory joint pain is that the symptoms will increase in frequency and intensity, although the severity of pain and stiffness does depend on several factors.

Migrating Joint Pain Causes
The most commonly cited cause for migrating joint pains is inflammatory or infectious diseases—of which migrating joint pain is a symptom, among several others.  Migrating joint pain has been associated with numerous diseases and illnesses, including: common colds, German measles, chicken pox, herpes complex, gout, sickle cell disease, hormonal disorders, nervous system disorders, cancerous myeloma, lupus, or several forms of arthritis.  Metabolism, weight gain, and chronic inflammation have also been noted as causes.

It should be noted that migrating joint pain occurs differently among patients.  Some complain of pain and stiffness only in the morning, while others cite an increase of pain during the day.  Symptoms can also affect patients varying on the root disease, with symptoms flaring up or receding corresponding on the severity of the original illness.  Joint pain can be limited a single area, or may involve multiple joints. 

Treatment Options
Treatment for migrating joint pain is based on first treating the responsible disease, followed then by management of pain and stiffness, which are treated with medication and therapy.  Exercise is recommended when patients are not experiencing symptoms in order to increase flexibility when attacks do occur. 

Photo shows magnetic resonance image of knee joint.