Joint pain after a cold may be related to a viral infection. Colds are caused by viral infections. Viruses invade the body and cause an inflammatory response, leading to abnormalities in the thermoregulatory center and causing fever. The lack of oxygen in the body during fever can increase the production of lactic acid in the muscles. The increase in lactic acid then causes pain in multiple muscles and joints throughout the body, such as thighs, calves, shoulders, upper extremities and other multiple muscle and joint pain. In addition, the inflammatory response produces inflammatory factors such as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins not only have a pro-inflammatory effect, but also enhance the body’s sensitivity to pain, which can also lead to increased sensitivity to joint pain. If joint pain is caused by a cold, antipyretic and analgesic medications such as acetaminophen may be used to relieve symptoms. As the cold improves, joint pain symptoms will be significantly relieved. Joint pain can also be caused by other illnesses. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is recommended that you seek medical attention to clarify the diagnosis and follow the doctor’s instructions.