Early Arthritis Symptoms

Early arthritis symptoms can be vague and confusing, but they are important to recognize. Newly diagnosed arthritis patients quickly realize that early symptoms are just the first layer to be uncovered before a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan can be established.

Early symptoms linked to arthritis usually include:

Joint stiffness
Tenderness in and around the joint
Limited range of motion in one or more joints
Redness and warmth around the affected joint

Clinical Picture Begins to Formulate


Though early symptoms are the first indication of an arthritic condition, there is much more information which needs to be gathered. There are more than 100 types of arthritis and related rheumatic conditions. For a patient to obtain a specific diagnosis (i.e. What type of arthritis do I have?), a doctor must evaluate the patient's:

Medical history
Current physical examination
Diagnostic tests
Assessment of disease progression

Together, the criteria formulate a clinical picture which must be routinely re-assessed by your doctor. It's important for you to learn the major differences between the various types of arthritis. An understanding of the primary characteristics associated with each type of arthritis will help you recognize what is and is not important to report to your doctor with regard to your own condition.

Know the Symptoms of Major Types of Arthritis


A basic knowledge of the major types of arthritis and symptoms also will better prepare you for doctor appointments. You will find it easier to formulate questions and communicate with your doctor once you are confident that you understand basic facts about arthritis symptoms.