International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam 2026 - Free Trainer Practice Questions and Study Guide

The condition characterized by pain or stiffness in the skeletal joints is arthritis. Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses various inflammatory conditions affecting the joints, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. This condition can manifest in several forms, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and it can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.

Osteoporosis, on the other hand, relates to a decrease in bone density, making bones more fragile and prone to fractures rather than directly affecting joint pain or stiffness. Fibromyalgia is characterized more by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas, and while it can involve joint discomfort, it is not exclusively a joint condition. Rheumatism is a general term that may refer to joint inflammation or pain but is less specific than arthritis and doesn't provide the same clarity regarding joint-specific issues.