Joint pain is not just ageing: Orthopaedic doctors explain signs that should never be ignored
New Delhi: Climbing stairs, getting out of a chair or opening a jar can turn into a struggle when arthritis sets in, and the damage soon reaches work, sleep and independence. Osteoarthritis involves changes in joint tissues, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. Many people put persistent stiffness and swelling down to age, yet different forms of the disease need different treatment. Four orthopaedic doctors explain why joint pain deserves early attention. They are Dr Pawan Kumar Chajed, Consultant, Orthopaedics, SPARSH Hospital, Hennur Road; Dr Mihir Tanvi, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics and Spine, Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Jaipur; Dr Sudhanshu Verma, Orthopaedics, Regency Healthcare, Gorakhpur; and Dr Krishan K Gupta, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement, Metro Hospitals.
Joint pain that changes daily life
Discussing when joint pain needs attention, Dr Chajed said, “Joint pain deserves attention when it starts changing how a person walks, works or manages everyday activities.”
He warned, “People should avoid assuming that persistent stiffness or swelling is simply an unavoidable consequence of growing older.”
Dr Chajed explained, “Arthritis includes different conditions, and identifying the underlying cause is essential to choosing the right treatment. The assessment should consider the pattern of symptoms, physical examination and investigations where clinically necessary.”
On inflammatory arthritis, he added, “For inflammatory arthritis, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help limit damage that may otherwise become irreversible.”
The doctor further advised, “Patients should describe difficulties such as dressing, gripping objects or climbing stairs, because these reveal the functional impact of the disease. Care aims to preserve movement and independence alongside relieving pain.”
Exercise and weight management
On osteoarthritis, Dr Tanvi said, “For people with osteoarthritis, treatment needs to address how the joint functions as well as how much it hurts. An appropriate exercise programme can help strengthen the muscles supporting the joint and improve flexibility.”
He cautioned, “The type and intensity of activity should be adapted to the patient’s symptoms, physical capacity and other health conditions. Low-impact activities may be useful, but patients should seek guidance before beginning an unfamiliar exercise routine.”
Dr Tanvi added, “Weight management is another important component for patients who are overweight, particularly when the knees or hips are affected. Medication may help manage symptoms, while physiotherapy can support safer movement and better function.”
He concluded, “A practical treatment plan should help patients remain active within their abilities and work towards meaningful everyday goals.”
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
Rheumatoid arthritis also represents a significant burden. Dr Verma said, “Persistent joint swelling, prolonged morning stiffness or symptoms affecting several joints should prompt a medical assessment.”
He warned, “Rheumatoid arthritis can affect younger adults too, so age alone should not be used to dismiss these warning signs.”
Dr Verma explained, “Pain relief may ease discomfort, but controlling inflammatory arthritis requires treatment directed at the underlying disease. There is no single test that can establish the diagnosis in every patient, which makes clinical evaluation important.”
He advised, “A rheumatology opinion should be sought when the symptoms suggest inflammatory arthritis. Patients receiving treatment need regular follow-up so that disease activity, treatment response and possible side effects can be monitored.”
The doctor added, “Early, sustained care can help protect joint function and reduce the disruption arthritis causes to working and family life.”
Joint replacement surgery
Dr Gupta said, “An arthritis diagnosis does not automatically mean that a patient needs joint replacement surgery. Treatment decisions should reflect the severity of symptoms and their effect on everyday life.”
He explained, “Exercise, weight management where appropriate, physiotherapy and prescribed medication can help many patients manage osteoarthritis. When these measures do not provide sufficient relief and joint damage is extensive, surgery may become an appropriate option.”
Dr Gupta further said, “That decision should follow a discussion about the expected benefits, possible risks and the patient’s overall health. Patients also need to understand the rehabilitation and support involved in their recovery.”
He concluded, “The goal is to improve useful function, whether that means walking more comfortably, managing personal care or returning to valued activities.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on the research and inputs shared by the doctors mentioned above and is intended for informational purposes only. The findings should not be considered medical advice or used for self-diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance.