What are the early signs of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis doesn’t usually show up all at once — it starts subtly and gradually builds. That’s why catching the early signs is so important.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
• A feeling of grinding or “creaking” in the joints
• Mild swelling after activity
• Reduced range of motion — it feels harder to bend, reach, or twist
• Dull, aching pain that comes and goes

These symptoms often appear in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, or spine — but fingers, hands, and shoulders can be affected too. If you’re noticing these signs more often, it’s a good time to talk to a specialist. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we can help you take control early and keep your joints moving with less pain.

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