Early Signs of Arthritis
Joint pain is a common complaint, particularly if you just went on a run or had an intense workout at the gym. But, when joint pain lingers for several weeks, regardless of your activity level, it’s time to pay attention.
Arthritis is an umbrella term for conditions that cause joint swelling, pain, and tenderness. If you’re in the early stages of developing arthritis, there’s still time to slow its progression and protect your joints from lasting damage with prompt treatment.
Early signs of arthritis include:
Arthralgia: Pain in a Joint
For the over 100 types of arthritis, pain in a joint is often the first warning sign. In many cases, the pain will flare up after using the joint for a prolonged period (i.e. after a long walk or gardening session). The pain may manifest as a burning feeling or a dull ache, and it often gets worse at night. Additionally, many people experience worsened arthritis pain when humidity levels suddenly change, or when it rains.
Stiffness
In the early stages of arthritis, a joint will become stiff and difficult to use, especially in the morning. For example, if you’re developing arthritis in the hands, you may struggle to open jars or use a keyboard. Joint function tends to gradually worsen in arthritis patients, but prompt treatment can help you avoid disruptions to your normal activities.
Swelling and Tenderness
As the cartilage in a joint degenerate, it triggers the body’s inflammatory process. This leads to swelling, redness, and tenderness. You may also feel accumulated synovial fluid in the joint, making it difficult to move comfortably. If you’re experiencing early signs of arthritis, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible. At Regenerative Medicine Now, we have a network of regenerative physicians who can help you recover without the need for surgery. Browse our database today!
