Early signs of knee osteoarthritis

Joint Stiffness

Joint stiffness is one of the earliest signs of knee osteoarthritis. It’s commonly felt in the morning or after sitting for long periods. Movement usually eases the stiffness, but persistent discomfort may indicate early cartilage damage in the knee joint.

Reduced Range of Motion

Early knee osteoarthritis can limit your ability to fully bend or straighten the knee, making everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs more difficult.

Bone Spurs

Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are extra bony growths that develop around the knee joint in osteoarthritis. They form as the body attempts to repair joint damage, often causing pain, reduced mobility, and a grating sensation during knee movement or activity.

Difficulty Sitting

People with early knee osteoarthritis may experience discomfort or stiffness after sitting for long periods. The knee can feel tight or sore when standing up, making transitions between sitting and standing increasingly uncomfortable over time.

Feeling of Instability

A common early sign of knee osteoarthritis is a sensation that the knee might "give way" or buckle during movement. This instability is often caused by weakened muscles, joint degeneration, or damaged cartilage, making it difficult to trust the knee while walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long durations.

A grinding, popping, or crackling sound in the knee—known as crepitus—can indicate early osteoarthritis. These noises occur as rough joint surfaces rub together due to cartilage wear, often accompanied by mild discomfort.

Grinding or Popping Sounds

Tenderness around the knee joint, especially when applying gentle pressure, can be an early sign of osteoarthritis. This sensitivity often results from inflammation or cartilage breakdown, making the area painful to touch and indicating underlying joint irritation or damage.

Tenderness When Pressed

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