In orthopedic medicine, osteoarthritis describes a degenerative joint ailment that happens when the protective cartilage of your bones wears down over time. Basically, it can damage any joint. But it most typically affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine. Individuals with osteoarthritis usually have joint pain and stiffness. And is more expected in older people.

As it turns out, knowing the early signs of osteoarthritis can help you seek timely treatment and manage symptoms effectively. Here, I’ll guide you through these early signs.

1. Joint Pain

One of the most noticeable early signs of osteoarthritis is joint pain. You might feel discomfort or a dull ache in your joints, particularly after extended periods of activity or at the end of the day. This pain often worsens with movement and might lessen with rest.

2. Stiffness

Stiffness in the joints, especially when you wake up in the morning or after being inactive for a while, is another early indicator of osteoarthritis. This stiffness typically lasts for a short period but can be quite discomforting.

3. Reduced Flexibility

You might begin to notice a decrease in your range of motion. It may become more challenging to perform movements that were once easy. For example, bending your knee fully or gripping objects tightly might not be as effortless as before.

4. Swelling

Swelling around the joint areas can occur due to inflammation. This swelling might not be constant; it can come and go. It may be more pronounced after prolonged activity.

5. Joint Tenderness

Your joints might feel tender when you apply light pressure to or near them. This tenderness is a sign of the inflammation and changes occurring in the joint.

6. Joint Cracking or Grinding

You might hear or feel a grinding sensation in your joints when you move. This sensation, known as crepitus, is caused by roughened cartilage surfaces rubbing against each other.

7. Bone Spurs

These are extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, forming around the affected joint. While they can be painless, they are a sign of the ongoing changes in your joints due to osteoarthritis.

8. Muscle Weakness

The muscles around the joint may weaken, which is often a response to pain and inflammation. This weakness can affect your ability to perform certain tasks.

What You Can Do

If you’re noticing these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional. They can confirm whether it’s osteoarthritis and suggest proper treatments. Meanwhile, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and doing exercises that enhance joint flexibility and strength can be beneficial.