Here are the telltale signs that you might have arthritis.
While the day after a long run may leave you dealing with sore, achy joints, if joint problems are persistent then you may be wondering if these are signs of arthritis. Since it’s important that you receive a diagnosis and proper treatment as quickly as possible to slow the progression of the disease, it’s also important to recognize the signs that it’s time to visit our Brandon, FL, family doctors Drs. Joel & Elizabeth Biggers.
The Classic Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
Wondering if you could be dealing with arthritis? Here are some of the telltale signs,
- Joint swelling: some types of arthritis result in red, swollen skin around the joint that can feel warm to the touch
- Joint pain: pain may be persistent, or it may flare-up. You may notice increased pain with movement
- Joint stiffness: along with pain, it is common to experience stiffness in the affected joints. Stiffness may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity
If you suspect that you have arthritis, you can easily turn to our Brandon, FL, primary care physicians for an evaluation. We are also happy to refer you to a specialist who focuses on treating and managing arthritis.
Arthritis often affects multiple joints, and you may experience joint problems on one side or both sides of the body. While arthritis can affect just about any joint in the body, it most commonly affects the,
- Wrists and hands
- Feet and ankles
- Elbows and shoulders
- Knees, lower back, and hips
Treating Arthritis
It’s important that we determine which type of arthritis you have before creating a treatment plan. After all, not all forms of arthritis are treated in the same way. Common ways to treat arthritis include,
- Medications that ease symptoms and also slow joint damage
- Occupational therapy, which can show you more efficient ways of moving and performing certain tasks that can make day-to-day living with arthritis easier and less painful
- Lifestyle modifications including dietary changes, exercising, and certain supplements can also improve arthritis symptoms
- Alternative therapies such as massage therapy and acupuncture
- Surgery may be necessary if severe joint damage is affecting mobility and quality of life
If you are experiencing the symptoms of arthritis it is important that you see a qualified medical professional here in Brandon, FL, that can help.
Call Biggers Family Medicine at (813) 655-4646 to schedule an evaluation.