Arthritis pain is not limited to senior adults. Young adults, teens, and middle-aged adults can experience arthritis as well. The best way to treat arthritis is to combat the pain early on. This guide highlights the early signs of arthritis that you can watch out for.
When Do Arthritis Symptoms Start?
The average age of arthritis onset varies for different types of arthritis. Signs of rheumatoid arthritis normally start between the ages of 25 and 45, but they can happen at any age. Children and young adults may develop young-onset rheumatoid arthritis (YORA) starting as early as 16. Osteoarthritis usually begins after age 40. Do not assume you are “too young” for arthritis because it may develop earlier than you think.
Early Indicators of Arthritis
Arthritis symptoms tend to get worse with time if they are left untreated. Thus, the early signs of arthritis are often mild versions of future symptoms. Examples include:
- Dull, recurring joint pain
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint
- Pain on your joints when you put pressure around them
- Stiffness or difficulty moving when you first wake up
- Pain in mirroring joints on your body (both knees, both elbows, etc.)
- Feeling like your joints grind together when you move
- Trouble bending your fingers or toes
- Ongoing aches in your knees, hips, hands, feet, neck, ankles, or elbows
If these symptoms are temporary, they may be the result of injury or strain. If they persist or come back repeatedly, they could be early indicators of arthritis. People with a family history of arthritis have a higher risk of developing arthritis. Be mindful of your experiences and your family history, and seek medical attention as needed.
Is It Arthritis or Something Else?
Not all joint pain is the result of arthritis. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis in order to pursue an effective treatment plan. For example, arthritis treatment may not help an old sports injury that never healed properly. Talk to your doctor about your current symptoms and past experiences to determine if arthritis is the root cause.
How to Treat Arthritis
Many patients treat the early signs of arthritis with over-the-counter medicines, compression braces, and topical creams. As the symptoms progress further, you may need specialized arthritis treatment that fits the type of arthritis you have. Early intervention is ideal because it can help you prevent symptoms from getting worse. If you feel like home remedies barely work, it’s probably time to talk to an arthritis pain doctor.
Macomb Pain Management offers targeted arthritis treatment procedures that deliver relief and healing right to the source. We personalize our treatment paths to fit each patient’s needs, and we utilize state-of-the-art equipment. Reach out to (248) 844-8281 to schedule a consultation for arthritis treatment, or visit our office located at:
Macomb Pain Management
8152 25 Mile Rd Suite B
Shelby Township, MI 48316
