As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, the swelling and deformity of the joints become more severe, mainly including: joint pyknosis: In the early stage of rheumatoid arthritis, joint swelling is more obvious, and the lesions are mainly concentrated in the proximal interphalangeal joints, and this swelling is called pyknosis. The swelling of the interphalangeal joints is the hallmark symptom of early rheumatoid arthritis. It is helpful in the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Swelling of the joints in the middle stage of rheumatoid arthritis: As the disease progresses, the swelling of the joints in the middle stage of rheumatoid arthritis develops further into the palm of the hand, with lesions mainly in the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. The degree of swelling and movement disorders of the diseased joints are further increased at this time. Goose neck” deformity: In the late stage of rheumatoid arthritis, the swelling and mobility of the joints are further increased, and various joint deformities may occur. The lesions are mainly in the proximal interphalangeal joints and distal interphalangeal joints, and the joints may become subluxed and the joint deformation may develop into a “goose neck” deformity. After the “gooseneck” deformity of the joint occurs, the finger basically loses its normal physiological function. Joint “buttonhole flower” deformity: In advanced rheumatoid arthritis, joint deformation may also occur in the metatarsophalangeal joint and the proximal interphalangeal joint. The metatarsophalangeal joint may become subluxated, and the proximal interphalangeal joint may develop a “buttonhole flower” deformity. In such severe deformities, there is nothing the doctor can do. There is no way to correct severe joint deformities. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms of joint discomfort, you should go to the hospital for an early examination and try to have a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment at an early stage of the disease.