Arthritis is Like a Duck

How does a doctor know when a patient has arthritis? How does a doctor know a duck is a duck? It looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck. Arthritis is no different.

Looks like a duck

Patients with arthritis look like they have pain and discomfort when utilizing the affected joints.

These individuals typically fall into a few distinct profiles. One common profile comprises elderly patients who have no previous history of joint injury or erosive joint disease. Another profile includes middle-aged to elderly patients who have a history of joint injury or erosive joint disease, which can contribute to the joint wearing out earlier than expected. Examples of traumatic injuries that can lead to joint damage include ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries and fractures involving the joint line. On the other hand, erosive joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and gout can cause chemical erosion of a joint. Regardless of the underlying cause, patients with arthritis often display visible signs of pain.

Swims like a duck

Arthritic joints move and feel like arthritic joints. These joints are often inflamed, which contributes to their tenderness and sensitivity. Additionally, arthritis can affect joint mobility, leading to stiffness or looseness beyond the normal range of motion. Stiff joints may encounter mechanical barriers that prevent full flexion or extension, limiting their movement. Furthermore, advanced stages of arthritis can result in joint deformities, which further impact joint stability. These deformities can impose additional strain on the surrounding soft tissues, potentially exacerbating joint instability.

https://journaloei.scholastica

https://www.orthobullets.com/r

Quacks like a duck

Arthritic joints move and feel like arthritic joints. These joints are often inflamed, which contributes to their tenderness and sensitivity. Additionally, arthritis can affect joint mobility, leading to stiffness or looseness beyond the normal range of motion. Stiff joints may encounter mechanical barriers that prevent full flexion or extension, limiting their movement. Furthermore, advanced stages of arthritis can result in joint deformities, which further impact joint stability. These deformities can impose additional strain on the surrounding soft tissues, potentially exacerbating joint instability.

https://radiopaedia.org/cases/

https://radiopaedia.org/cases/

Understanding common patient profiles and arthritis characteristics can assist in diagnosing and developing appropriate treatment plans to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life. Don't let arthritis hold you back from the activities you love! Take the first step towards getting your life back on track by scheduling an appointment today. To book your consultation, simply call (860) 585-3333.

I look forward to welcoming you to our practice and assisting you on your journey to improved joint health and mobility.

Best regards,

Dr. B

Orthopedic Surgeon

Bristol Health

Disclaimer: No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.