If you associate stiff joints with older people, you could be ignoring the symptoms of a degenerative condition such as osteoarthritis. Wear and tear in the joints is a natural result of aging – but there is no set timetable for when or how fast it can occur.
It is important to listen when your body is giving you warning signs. Osteoarthritis typically affects the hips, knees or spine. These are the main weight bearing joints, and therefore more susceptible to increased wear and tear. However, there are factors that can lead to non-weight bearing joints suffering significant wear and tear.
Genetic Factors
Although anatomy is fairly consistent, genetics often account for the differences that cause joints to suffer earlier or more significant wear and tear. However, you are more likely to develop osteoarthritis from injury, repetitive joint movement, obesity or the effects of aging.
Although osteoarthritis can strike at any age, symptoms tend to first emerge in patients who are aged 45-50. If you are suffering from stiff joints, osteoarthritis is one of several likely causes. Seeking diagnosis is important, as treatment options are more effective when the wear and tear in the joint is in the early stages.
Stem Cell Therapies
Stem cell therapies can help sufferers of conditions such as osteoarthritis find relief from the pain and discomfort of symptoms. You may need prolonged treatment, including surgeries, which will require extensive recovery time. Cartilage and soft tissue regeneration is also enhanced with the right combination of stem cell therapies.
If you would like to discuss orthopedic treatment options, including stem cell therapies for osteoarthritis, call the offices of Regenerative Orthopaedics today. Dr. Steve Struhl is an experienced surgeon who specializes in providing comprehensive care for complex joint conditions in New York and Westchester.