SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton: How To Know If Joint Pain Could Be Arthritis

Press release from SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton:

July 26, 2021

Across the United States, nearly a quarter of all adults suffer from arthritis, according to the CDC. Arthritis refers to the wear and tear of the joints, specifically the loss of cartilage that allows joints to function smoothly and without pain.

“Arthritis is common, but it’s also something that’s very treatable with both surgical and non-surgical solutions, depending on your specific condition,” said Dr. Jacob Haynes, orthopedic hip and knee surgeon with SSM Health Bone & Joint/OSOI in Oklahoma City. “Even for patients suffering from the daily pain associated with arthritis, we are generally very successful at improving their quality of life so they can return to doing the things they love.”

Although it can manifest in various ways, the most common signs you may have arthritis include joint pain, joint swelling and catching or locking of the joint, according to Dr. Haynes. Some patients also complain of a buckling feeling or general instability of the joint.

Patients with arthritis typically experience discomfort when engaging in weight-bearing activities, such as walking, or high-impact activities, such as running, jumping, cutting, twisting or pivoting.

“Normal wear and tear from playing sports often doesn’t lead to arthritis,” Dr. Haynes said. “However, a history of sports injuries, fractures, previous surgeries or some genetic predispositions can lead to developing arthritis, even at a young age.”

Dr. Haynes said he is often asked by patients with arthritis how they should know when it is time to consider surgery. While each situation is different, he recommends consulting with your medical provider and asking yourself:

• Are my symptoms long-lasting?
• Have I tried other remedies or treatments with little to no relief?
• Are my daily activities limited by my arthritis?

For more information about orthopedic care at SSM Health, visit www.ssmhealth.com/orthopedics.

This press release was produced by SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton. The views expressed here are the author’s own.