It’s fairly common to experience joint discomfort from time to time, especially if you lead an active lifestyle or participate in high-impact exercises like running. That nagging pain might stem from damaged muscles, tendons, or ligaments near the joint or result from tendinitis, a sprain, or a strain.
However, if you begin to notice consistent soreness, discomfort, or stiffness, especially when the pain centers directly in the joint, it could be an early sign of arthritis.
Inflammatory Arthritis vs. Osteoarthritis
Arthritis refers to a group of over 100 conditions that impact the joints and nearby tissues. These conditions generally fall into two primary types: inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis (OA).
Inflammatory arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s defense system mistakenly targets its own joints and surrounding tissues. One of the most recognized forms is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which often affects the same joints on both sides of the body, for example, both knees or both wrists.
The second and most widespread form is osteoarthritis (OA). This degenerative condition usually results from joint damage due to aging or repetitive use. OA typically affects joints that bear weight, like the hips, knees, lower back, or big toe, but it can also cause stiffness and discomfort in the fingers or thumbs.
Early Signs of Arthritis
Watch out for these early signs of arthritis that may signal it’s time to consult a healthcare professional:
Joint Pain
Persistent aching or discomfort in a joint that gradually worsens over time is a common early sign of arthritis. The pain may be triggered during physical activity or appear afterward, often becoming noticeable at the end of a busy or physically demanding day.
Joint Swelling and Tenderness
As arthritis advances, the affected joints may become swollen and sensitive to the touch. Pressing on the area can cause discomfort or pain.
Joint Stiffness
Stiffness is especially common in the morning or after long periods of inactivity, such as prolonged sitting. You might feel like your joints need to “loosen up” before moving comfortably. If morning stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes, it may point to inflammatory arthritis.
Grating Sensation or Sound
A grinding or grating feeling when moving a joint can be a sign that cartilage has worn away, a common indicator of arthritis. This is frequently observed in the knees and hips; however, it can also impact other joints.
Pain in a Previously Injured Joint
Osteoarthritis often develops in areas that have experienced past injuries or trauma. For example, someone who had a knee injury years ago may begin to feel joint pain in that same spot later in life.
Groin Pain
Pain from hip arthritis can often be felt in the groin rather than directly on the outer hip. In some cases, the discomfort may also spread to the thigh or buttocks.
Symmetrical Joint Pain
In types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, pain typically appears in the same joints on both sides of the body, such as both knees, wrists, or hands.
Pain or Stiffness in Hands and Feet
Inflammatory forms of arthritis often begin in the smaller joints, such as those in the hands, wrists, and feet. You might notice stiffness in your feet upon waking, making it difficult or painful to move your toes, with some improvement as the day progresses.
Fatigue
Ongoing tiredness is a lesser-known but crucial early symptom of certain types of arthritis. This type of fatigue is associated with the body’s immune response to inflammation. When fatigue occurs alongside joint pain or stiffness, it may be worthwhile to investigate further.
Fever
A mild fever can sometimes appear in the early stages of inflammatory arthritis. While fever alone may not be alarming, when paired with joint swelling, stiffness, or discomfort, it could indicate an underlying inflammatory condition.
Visit Dr. Raj Desai – Performance Sports and Spine Clinic
Arthritis can significantly affect daily comfort and mobility. Identifying the early symptoms is crucial for managing the condition effectively and improving long-term outcomes. Being aware of these warning signs and getting timely care can help reduce the progression and impact of arthritis.
At Dr. Raj Desai’s Performance Sports and Spine Clinic, you’ll find expert care for joint pain, whether it’s due to arthritis or another issue. Our clinic offers advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans, led by skilled specialists dedicated to restoring mobility and alleviating pain.
If you’re searching for Arthritis doctors in Valencia, our team is here to help. Visit our site to learn more and book a consultation with a physician who understands your needs.
