Early and Complete Treatment of Each Joint Bleed

When a joint begins to bleed, the first sign is often an unusual feeling in the joint, such as a tingling or bubbling sensation. As the bleed progresses, this is followed by stiffness, swelling, and/or pain in the joint. The most common joints affected are the knees, ankles, and elbows. See figure below to review what a healthy joint, as well as a joint bleed, looks like.

Healthy Joint In a healthy joint, the cartilage provides padding between the bones, allowing the joint to move smoothly, without pain. The muscle supporting the joint remains normal.

Joint Bleed A joint bleed, when treated aggressively and followed with physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles, is less likely to become a “target joint” or become damaged.

If you experience a joint bleed, administer a sufficient dose of clotting Factor to stop the bleed (multiple doses may be necessary) and follow the R.I.C.E. technique immediately:

• Rest: use the joint as little as possible. 
• Ice: put ice on the affected joint to reduce swelling and pain.
• Compression: apply pressure around the joint, using an elastic bandage.
• Elevation: hold the joint higher than the rest of the body to reduce swelling and pain.

Remember the Association of Hemophilia Clinic Directors in Canada recommend patients call their hemophilia treatment centre in the time of an emergency.