Most people associate osteoarthritis with ageing. However, this degenerative joint condition can also affect younger people. Growing evidence suggests that younger people in Singapore, even those under 35, aren’t immune from joint pain. While hard statistics on Singapore might be limited, global trends and risk factors in our society suggest we shouldn’t dismiss joint pain as just a part of ageing. Understanding the early signs and seeking timely treatment is crucial for managing osteoarthritis at any age.
If you’re under 35 and experiencing unexplained joint pain or stiffness, it’s essential to be aware of the signs that suggest early osteoarthritis.
5 Early Warning Signs of Osteoarthritis (Even Under 35)
Often associated with ageing, osteoarthritis can begin its subtle onset in individuals under 35. Here are five early indicators that signal the presence of this condition. It’s time to seek advice from a professional if you recognise any of these symptoms to allow for timely intervention and management:
- Joint Stiffness in the Morning: If your joints feel stiff when you wake up, but this sensation eases after a few minutes of movement, it could be an early sign of osteoarthritis. Unlike the stiffness that lasts all day, which might indicate other conditions, this specific pattern is characteristic of early osteoarthritis.
- Joint Tenderness: Gently pressing on or around a joint elicits tenderness or discomfort, possibly due to the early stages of cartilage wear. This tenderness is not limited to the inside of the joint; areas around the joint can also be sensitive due to surrounding inflammation.
- Limited Range of Motion: Experiencing a decreased ability to move your joints through their full range of motion can indicate early osteoarthritis. This limitation often occurs without pain initially but might progress to discomfort as the condition advances.
- Crepitus: This is the medical term for a crackling or grating sensation or sound in the joints during movement. It occurs due to rough surfaces within the joint moving against each other, a hallmark of the early degradation of joint surfaces.
- Joint Swelling: Swelling around a joint may not always be accompanied by pain in the initial stages of osteoarthritis. The swelling is due to inflammation and fluid accumulation as a response to the changes happening in the joint.
Recognising these signs early, especially in younger individuals, is necessary for managing the progression of osteoarthritis through lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, and other treatments aimed at preserving joint function and quality of life.
What if I am under 30 and identify these signs?
While less common, it’s possible to develop osteoarthritis in your 20s. Certain factors can increase your risk and contribute to the acceleration of cartilage wear, leading to osteoarthritis. Past joint injuries, such as those sustained through sports or accidents, can cause immediate damage to the cartilage, setting the stage for earlier wear and tear. Likewise, occupations or hobbies that impose repetitive stress on certain joints can hasten the breakdown of cartilage. There’s also a noticeable difference in risk between genders, with women being more susceptible to osteoarthritis than men. Additionally, individuals with inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, face a heightened risk of developing osteoarthritis at an earlier stage. Furthermore, lifestyle factors, particularly obesity, place excessive stress on weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees, exacerbating cartilage damage and advancing the onset of osteoarthritis.
Can you stop osteoarthritis from progressing?
While there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, getting diagnosed early is crucial. Treatment options can significantly slow disease progression and help you maintain an active lifestyle.
Understanding these stages helps gauge the severity of your condition:
- Stage 1 (Doubtful): Minor bone spurs may be present, but likely no pain or noticeable symptoms.
- Stage 2 (Mild): Discomfort begins after activity with some joint stiffness. Cartilage begins to wear.
- Stage 3 (Moderate): Pain becomes more frequent with regular activities; joint stiffness is common
- Stage 4(Severe): Pain is pervasive and limits daily life, and there is significant loss of cartilage and joint space.
Don't Ignore the Signs: What to Do
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t dismiss them as “growing pains” or normal ageing. Consult an orthopaedic specialist in Singapore for a proper diagnosis.
If you’re concerned about early signs of osteoarthritis, don’t hesitate to seek professional evaluation. Schedule a consultation with Hip Knee Orthopaedic Singapore to discuss your concerns and get an accurate diagnosis.
