7 symptoms of rheumatism in the bones (and when to see a doctor)

Symptoms of rheumatism in the bones are related to swelling and pain caused by inflammation of the joints, which originate from diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis, for example.

Rheumatism corresponds to a group of various diseases that affect muscles, bones and joints and that can affect anyone, especially the elderly and women, although it can also occur in younger people and men. Learn more about rheumatism.

In the presence of symptoms indicative of rheumatism, it is recommended that a rheumatologist be consulted so that the cause of the symptoms can be identified and the most appropriate treatment can be indicated according to the severity of the disease.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of rheumatism are:

1. Joint pain

The main symptom of rheumatism is pain in the joints, especially those in the hands and feet, marking the beginning of the disease.

2. Swelling and redness of the joints

In more advanced stages of rheumatism, it is possible to observe inflammation of the affected joints due to joint effusion, causing redness and increased temperature in the affected area, causing limitation of movement.

3. Morning stiffness

Rheumatism can cause morning stiffness, that is, in the morning when waking up, which can last about 1 hour and improve throughout the day. However, the next day, the stiffness returns, causing difficulty in moving the joints.

4. Inflammation of the tendons

In rheumatism, it is possible to have inflammation of the tendons, also called tenosynovitis, which causes symptoms such as pain in the area and a feeling of muscle weakness.

This inflammation generally occurs in the tendons of the joints of the hands, feet or wrists, which are normally more activated during everyday activities.

5. Changes in the fingers

Rheumatism can affect the fingers, causing a deformity in which the fingers are slightly flexed, interfering with their mobility and limiting the performance of daily tasks, such as writing or holding objects.

6. Changes in the feet

Rheumatism can also affect the feet, causing a deformity in which the toes are placed on top of each other, interfering with the person’s walking, so that it may be necessary to use crutches or, in more serious cases, a wheelchair to to move.

7. Changes in the knees

Rheumatism can also affect the knees, causing joint effusion and leading, in some cases, to the appearance of a cyst behind the knee, known as Baker’s cyst, which can cause pain when it ruptures, as well as inflammation and pain in the calf.

Possible causes

Rheumatism in the bones is normally associated with aging, due to the progressive stiffening of the joints, however it can happen in people of any age and is usually related to osteoarticular or autoimmune diseases, such as osteoarthritis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, for example. See what the main causes of bone pain are.

Consequences of rheumatism

It is important that the cause of pain in bones and joints is identified quickly, otherwise it could severely limit movement and lead to complete deterioration of the joint, interfering with the person’s quality of life.

When to go to the doctor

It is important to see a doctor if symptoms persist for more than 6 months, especially if there is redness, swelling or heat in the area of ​​pain.

To assess the cause of the pain, the doctor may order blood tests, X-rays or MRIs, for example, and then begin appropriate treatment according to the cause. When discovered early, it is possible to control the symptoms of rheumatism well and lead a normal life. Discover some home treatment options for rheumatism in the bones.

Furthermore, it is interesting that the person undergoes physiotherapy with the aim of strengthening the joints and preventing their deterioration and taking calcium supplements to prevent bone demineralization.