Are you feeling persistent stiffness and soreness in your joints and fear something might be amiss? Your gut feeling might not be far off.
Arthritis is more prevalent than many people realize, so it’s crucial to understand the early symptoms before you dismiss those aches as mere after-effects of an intense workout.
The disease doesn’t exclusively target older adults; it affects people of all ages, from children and athletes to possibly even you. With over 100 different types of arthritis, it’s crucial to recognize the early signs.
As part of our comprehensive family medicine services at Woodstock Family Practice & Urgent Care in Woodstock, Georgia, Dr. James Lee helps you manage your joint health and potentially ward off severe symptoms in the future.
Of the 100-plus types of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent and is often associated with aging. However, your lifestyle, injuries, and genetics can trigger its onset at a younger age.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has discovered that nearly 220,000 American children and teenagers have some form of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, or juvenile arthritis can all occur in young people.
Regardless of age, the key is to listen to your body and take action. If arthritis goes unchecked and without adequate lifestyle shifts, early symptoms can advance, leading to incapacitating conditions.
Sadly, young adults often overlook arthritis symptoms. Here are some signs that might point to an initial-stage joint problem:
Identifying the symptoms is your first move; the next step is to take action.
While there’s no cure for arthritis, there’s a lot you can do to slow it down and manage its symptoms. Here are three steps to take if you start noticing the signs.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, contact Woodstock Family Practice & Urgent Care for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized management plan.
While you may not require immediate advanced medical treatment, making proactive lifestyle changes such as managing your weight, performing joint-friendly exercises, and improving your posture is crucial.
If your condition requires more comprehensive care, we’re here to help. Dr. Lee can prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or joint injections to alleviate your pain and slow down arthritis progression.
Don’t let your youth lull you into a false sense of invincibility — arthritis can affect anyone, regardless of age. If you observe signs in your joints, call Woodstock Family Practice & Urgent Care or book online right away.
