How do you know if your joint symptoms mean you have arthritis?

Some of the Warning Signs are:

1. Pain – Pain from arthritis can be constant or it may come and go.
2. Swelling – Swelling that can last for three days or longer.
3. Stiffness – Morning stiffness that lasts longer than an hour is good reason to suspect arthritis.
4. Motion is painful – Difficulty moving a joint.

Your experience with these symptoms will help your doctor pin down the type and extent of arthritis. Before visiting the doctor, keep track of your symptoms for a few weeks, noting what is swollen and stiff, when, for how long and what helps ease the symptoms.

What about children and arthritis?

Approximately 300,000 children in the United States are estimated to have some type of arthritis. Please review the frequently asked questions listed below for more detailed information:

Most people start with their primary care physician, but it’s possible to be referred to doctors who specialize in treating arthritis and related conditions. Getting an accurate diagnosis at an OrthoNOW walk-in clinic is an important step to getting timely medical care for your condition.

Physical Activity for Treating Arthritis

Almost a quarter of the American population suffers from osteoarthritis, a condition in which chronic wear and tear of cartilage produces stiff, swollen, painful joints. Arthritis gets worse over time, and without intervention can become severe enough to limit activities or immobilize you completely. For some, the recommended treatment for their arthritis pain includes medications, PRP (regenerative medicine ), or surgery, but increasing your physical activity can be the ticket to improving your pain… Learn more about Physical Activity for Treating Arthritis.