Joint health is crucial for maintaining mobility and quality of life. However, diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can silently creep in, often going unnoticed until they significantly impact daily activities. Recognising the early signs of large joint diseases can lead to timely intervention and better management of symptoms.
To understand the early signs of large joint disease, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Anyapu Deepak, Consultant - Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mamata Multi-speciality Hospital, Andhra Pradesh. Dr Deepak helped us list down some of the early signs, whiich are as follows:
Joint Pain
One of the most common early signs of large joint disease is joint pain. This discomfort might be intermittent initially but can gradually become more persistent. “Pay attention to any pain that worsens with activity or that occurs after rest or inactivity,” Dr Anyapu Deepak said.
Stiffness
Especially noticeable after periods of rest or inactivity, stiffness in the joints is a telltale sign. This symptom can make it difficult to get moving in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
Also read: Suffering From Swelling In Joints? Here Are Some Food You should strictly Prohibit
Swelling and Redness
If you notice swelling or redness around the joint, it’s essential not to ignore these signs. According to Dr Deepak, “The most symptoms which one should never neglect are redness, sudden swelling, and pain at the joint. These may be signs of an infection, gout, etc., which should be treated as an emergency.”
Warmth or Heat
Warmth emanating from the joint can indicate inflammation or infection. This symptom often accompanies swelling and pain.
Limited Range of Motion
Difficulty moving the joint or experiencing a reduced range of motion can be a sign of early joint disease. You might notice this when trying to perform everyday tasks like dressing or grooming.
Sounds in the Joint
Clicking, snapping, or grinding sounds when moving the joint can indicate cartilage wear or other joint issues.
Difficulty with Daily Activities
Struggling with routine activities, such as walking, squatting, or using stairs, is a significant red flag. As Dr Deepak highlights, “Pain while squatting or walking for some distance, slowly increasing swelling over the joint should be noticed as early recognition can allow activity modification and preventive measures to slow down the process of degeneration and allow non-pharmacological treatment to help a lot.”
Also read: oint Pain In Monsoon? Eat And Avoid These Foods For Relief
Specifics of Inflammatory Joint Pain
Rheumatoid arthritis, a common inflammatory joint disease, typically affects younger individuals and presents with specific symptoms. Dr. Deepak notes, “Stiffness of joints, rest pain, swollen joints, associated with bilateral involvement, and also involving small bones suggest towards inflammatory arthritis.”
Importance of Early Intervention
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. As Dr. Deepak emphasises, “Early signs of degeneration changes of the large joints are most commonly neglected and don't seek medical attention until it bothers their daily activities.”
Maintaining Joint Health
To support joint health, regular check-ups are essential. Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in exercises with the guidance of experts can make a significant difference. These proactive measures can help preserve joint function and prevent or delay the onset of joint diseases.
Conclusion
Awareness and prompt action are key when it comes to joint health. By recognizing the early signs of large joint diseases and seeking timely medical advice, you can take control of your joint health and maintain a better quality of life. Regular exercise, a healthy lifestyle, and periodic medical check-ups can all contribute to healthier joints and a more active life.