Around 32-33 million US adults are affected by Osteoarthritis. If you are taking painkillers for a very long time, it may provide temporary relief, but it won’t be helpful for the underlying cause. While pain is one sign of osteoarthritis, knowing about the other signs that you need to see an orthopedic surgeon can save you from serious joint problems like joint deformity.
Read this blog that will help you spot the alarming signs that you require orthopedic help.
What Are the Signs that You Need Orthopedic Care?
Some patients do not visit an orthopedic specialist unless they experience a fracture or any other traumatic injury. Little do they know that ignoring the signs of seeing an orthopedic specialist can do more harm than good. Here is how the signs may appear:
1. Joint Pain With Prolonged History
If you are experiencing pain in your joints after a long day, that’s quite natural. However, when the pain is persistent and isn’t resolving with primary care, it can be alarming. If the pain is not relieved after resting or a conservative approach, then visiting an orthopedic specialist will help.
2. Inability to Perform Daily Tasks
If you feel walking, getting out of your bed, and running are very difficult tasks, then it is not a good sign. Inability to bear your own weight is even more alarming. It can be a result of joint instability or other issues, like rupture of the ligaments, tendon injuries, or neurological problems. Timely consultation with the specialist can help regain the strength you need to carry out these daily tasks independently.
3. Limited Movement
If you experience joint stiffness, especially early in the morning after getting out of bed, it could signal a problem that’s not just aging. It could be indicative of osteoarthritis or simply inflammatory arthritis. You can help yourself by stretching or exercising; this is a long-term, central role in managing OA and joint problems. To get the right treatment, consider seeing a doctor.
4. Pain Upon Movement
While regular movements are beneficial if you’re having chronic joint conditions, acute injuries may require rest before you get back to regular activities. Severe pain occurring upon movement is indicative of ligament damage, fractures, or inflammation in the tendons.
5. Swelling Around The Joint
Minor injuries can cause occasional swelling, but sudden or persistent joint swelling may signal bursitis, arthritis, or infection. Seek care early to prevent it from worsening.
Urgent Signs You Must Not Delay Seeing a Specialist
While the signs mentioned above can indicate osteoarthritis, they may also be in other joints and soft tissue conditions. Now that you know the common warning signs, let’s have a look at the signs for urgent care. Studies suggest that you must not delay seeing a specialist if you notice the following:
- In a musculoskeletal injury, such as a fracture, the bone is visible through the skin
- Your joint pain has lasted more than 3 months
- You notice a sudden joint deformity
- You feel an inability to move around
- You are having a very limited range of motion
- OTC pain medications are not helping anymore
- Joint pain associated with infection signs such as redness, fever, and swelling
The Final Message
Joint stiffness, pain, or swelling are warning signs that you may need medical care. Many people ignore these early symptoms until the pain becomes severe and limits movement.
Prevent your joints from progressing towards damage by visiting Emergency Hospital Systems and seeking orthopedic care from a specialist. We offer urgent care to all patients who need it. Call us at (281) 592-5410 for appointment booking and further information.