Six Early Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis affects millions of Americans as they age, and it can cause many issues with mobility.  When someone is suffering from arthritis, it can make even the simplest of motions difficult to perform.  For this reason, people need to be treated by an orthopedic surgeon in Orange City.  These professionals are trained to work with issues related to your bones, joints, and muscles, whether you are suffering from an illness or have sustained an injury.  In order to know whether it's time for a doctor to assess your arthritis, you will want to familiarize yourself with some of the early symptoms of arthritis.

Fatigue

Many people that suffer from arthritis experience physical fatigue.  This feeling may come and go, but it can also become so severe that it could stimulate feelings of depression or withdrawn activity.  When you are feeling fatigue related to your body aches and pain, it may be time to consult with a professional.   

Stiffness in Your Joints - Especially in the Morning and Night

Stiffness in your joints is one of the earliest signs of arthritis.  This stiffness should only last a few minutes either when you wake up in the morning or lie down at night.  If you are experiencing these sensations, you may want to seek treatment to learn about your options for reducing pain and inflammation before things worsen.  

Joint Swelling

Because arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joints, it is one of the leading symptoms.  Many people will ice their joints when they are feeling discomfort or pain, as this will help to alleviate some of the tenderness and help the swelling go down.  Getting rest and compressing the area will also help any swelling temporarily.

Joint Pain

After you have joint swelling, joint pain usually follows.  Typically, you will feel pain when you are moving the affected areas, but some still complain of pain during times of rest.  The most common places that may be painful are the fingers and the wrists, but it is still common for people to experience pain when they are moving their knees, ankles, or shoulders.

Numbness and Tingling Sensations

Inflammation can cause pressure on the nerves around your joints, which can also lead to numbness or tingling sensations in the affected area.  Sometimes, the joints in your hands or knees may even cause a cracking sound when you move in particular ways.  This is cause for concern, as it may indicate that the cartilage between your bones is diminishing.

Decreased Range of Motion

Feeling pain in your joints can also lead to a decreased range of motion.  The ligaments and tendons around the affected joints may become unstable, deformed, or even begin to atrophy.  You may struggle to straighten or bend particular areas of your arms or legs as the disease progresses.  Even if it is slightly painful, you will want to continue to work on exercises that target these areas and encourage movement.

These are just a few of the early symptoms that could indicate you may be suffering from arthritis.  Because arthritis is common, there are many treatment options to help you alleviate and manage the pain.  Contact our orthopedic surgeon in Orange City to schedule your appointment and hear the treatment options for you today.