Joint Problems
"Joint bleed" — words that no one with hemophilia wants to hear. But the world of treating joint bleeds has come a long way. Attitudes about what people with hemophilia should and shouldn't do have changed.
Therapy has improved to help prevent bleeds. There are also new techniques for treating joints that do become damaged. And there are many ways that you can take charge of your own joint health.
You are probably familiar with the National Hemophilia Foundation's prevention campaign "Do the 5!" But did you know that three of the five recommendations (recommendations 1, 3 and 4) are about ways you can reduce the risk of joint damage?
- Get checked. Visit your local treatment center at least one time each year for a comprehensive check-up.
- Get vaccinated. Hepatitis A and B are preventable.
- Treat bleeds early and adequately. It's one of the best ways to reduce the risk of joint damage or to slow the progress of existing joint damage.
- Exercise. Regular exercise builds strong muscles that protect the joints.*
- Get tested. Although therapeutics are safer than ever, regular testing for blood-borne infections is a must.
There are many ways you can keep your joints strong and prevent bleeds through treatment and lifestyle choices. In this section of the Web site, you'll find information about keeping your joints healthy, including information about selecting an exercise plan and working with your treatment center on a factor regimen.
But if a bleed does occur, you'll need to know how to manage bleeds most effectively. It starts with recognizing the symptoms of a bleed and then using factor and R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to stop the bleeding and begin clotting as quickly as possible.
For people who develop problems in a joint, there are surgical and nonsurgical options for treating joint damage which can result in reduced pain and increased mobility.
Learning about all the ways you can reduce the risk of joint damage is the first step. The second step is working out a treatment and lifestyle plan with your physician or treatment center. Finally, the most important step, is sticking to your treatment and exercise plan, and effectively managing bleeds that do occur.
*Note: Be sure to consult your physician or treatment center before beginning any exercise program or participating in sporting activities. If an injury occurs, contact your physician or treatment center immediately for the appropriate treatment.
