Your job could be hard work, and while you may love it, it will eventually take a toll on your body. Depending on your area of expertise, you could be required to lift heavy objects regularly, perform repetitive motions, twist, turn and move all day. While your body will try its best to keep up, the muscles, joints, and nerves take a beating. However, it would help if you took care of them before problems get out of hand. For instance, it would be a wise idea to look for an orthopedic joint specialist in Chevy Chase if you notice that your joints are not functioning as well as they should. Likewise, you should also consider the following warning signs to understand when you should schedule an appointment with an orthopedic doctor.
1. Relentless shoulder pain
If you have pain in the shoulders that increases at night and worsens with movement, you should be examined by a specialist before it is too late. You may also notice some tenderness around the joints, and it could be a sign of tendonitis. This condition can also display the same symptoms elsewhere, like in the elbow, heel, and wrist. Remember, the tendons are responsible for joining the muscles to the bones. When they are injured, overworked, or lose elasticity, they lead to swelling or inflammation, which requires immediate medical attention.
2. Trouble performing everyday activities
As you get older, bone and joint discomfort will always be a concern, but it should not stop you from executing your daily activities. Likewise, even when you are not aged and notice you are struggling to perform simple tasks such as climbing the stairs, walking in the park, or lifting objects, you should see an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible.
3. Decreased mobility
It is not uncommon to hear someone say that they cannot walk for long because some pain is bothering them. In most cases, decreased mobility happens as you get older because of stiffness or weakness in the mornings or after prolonged periods of sitting or lying down. Do not ignore these signs and think that they are a normal part of the aging process. By seeking the help of an orthopedic doctor, you will alleviate these symptoms to enable you to keep moving as long as possible while enjoying an active lifestyle.
4. Difficulty with stability
Another sign that you should schedule an appointment with an orthopedic doctor is if you are experiencing instability. If you notice it is becoming challenging to stand, walk, or transition with relative ease, you are encouraged to determine whether you have an orthopedic issue with the right specialist. You might be ignoring your current situation, and yet you are experiencing a severe issue that should be addressed before it is too late and starts affecting your quality of life.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or see any signs, you should schedule an appointment with an orthopedic doctor right away. Some of these problems are highly treatable with less invasive, non-surgical options that should put an end to your agony. You need the best lifestyle possible, and one way to achieve that is by saying goodbye to pain.