Joint Stiffness
What is Joint Stiffness?
Joint stiffness is a condition characterized by a reduced range of motion in one or more joints, often accompanied by pain, swelling, and a feeling of tightness. This condition can significantly impact daily activities, making it difficult to perform routine tasks such as walking, bending, or even holding objects.
Causes of Joint Stiffness
Joint stiffness can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint stiffness. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the joint lining.
- Injury: Traumatic injuries such as fractures, sprains, or ligament tears can lead to stiffness during the healing process.
- Overuse: Repetitive motions or overuse of a joint can cause inflammation and stiffness.
- Inactivity: Prolonged periods of inactivity or immobility can result in decreased joint flexibility.
- Age: As people age, their joints naturally become stiffer due to changes in the cartilage and synovial fluid.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as gout, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis can also contribute to joint stiffness.
Symptoms of Joint Stiffness
Common symptoms associated with joint stiffness include:
- Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain in the affected joint.
- Swelling: Inflammation and swelling around the joint.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion.
- Tenderness: The joint may be sensitive to touch or pressure.
- Weakness: A feeling of weakness or instability in the joint.
Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Physical Therapy: Customized exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion.
- Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat to relax muscles and improve blood flow, or cold to reduce inflammation and numb pain.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, ergonomic adjustments, and avoiding activities that exacerbate the condition.
- Assistive Devices: Braces, splints, or other devices to support the joint and improve mobility.
Surgical Treatments
- Arthroscopy/ Mini-open contracture release: A minimally invasive procedure where a small camera (arthroscope) and instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to treat the joint.
- Joint Replacement Surgery: Replacing a damaged joint with an artificial implant, commonly used for severe arthritis.
- Osteotomy: Cutting and realigning bones to relieve pressure on the joint.
Advanced Care with
Dr. Mohit Kukreja
Dr. Mohit Kukreja, a leading orthopedic surgeon in Mumbai Central, specializes in the treatment of joint stiffness. His extensive training and experience ensure that each patient receives the highest quality care tailored to their unique needs.
- Expertise: Advanced techniques in the management of joint stiffness and related conditions.
- Personalized Treatment: Customized plans for optimal recovery and improved joint function.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with the latest technology for precise and effective treatments.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one is struggling with joint stiffness, don’t hesitate to seek expert care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a full recovery.
Let us help you regain your mobility and improve your quality of life with our comprehensive joint stiffness treatment.