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Morning stiffness is caused by inflammation of joints and connective tissue, and is common in patients with chronic conditions such as arthritis. It can be managed with gentle exercise, proper nutrition, and heating pads. Older adults may benefit from exercises tailored for their age group.
Morning stiffness is usually the result of inflammation of the joints and connective tissue such as tendons and muscles. Some chronic conditions such as arthritis have a link to morning stiffness and can also develop in association with physical activity or temporary injury. Getting up and moving should help disperse the stiffness. If it is so severe that a patient remains bedridden or takes hours to fully move in the morning, the patient should discuss the situation with a doctor, as there may be a more serious underlying problem.
The biomechanics of morning stiffness is a subject of study, and researchers aren’t exactly sure how it develops. The most likely hypothesis is that when patients are asleep and therefore not very active, lymph leaks out of their blood vessels, especially around inflamed areas where tissue is already swollen. The excess fluid causes the tissue to swell more, making movement difficult until the patient wakes up and begins to move the limb gently, restoring circulation and allowing the excess fluid to dissipate.
Patients with connective tissue disorders, joint conditions, and diseases such as lupus and fibromyalgia often experience morning stiffness as part of their symptoms. It can wax and wane. Patients may notice more stiffness in humid climates, cold times of the year or after exercising too hard. Drug-treated patients who respond well to medications usually have less stiffness, and a sudden spike may indicate that the medications aren’t working as effectively.
As we age, morning stiffness becomes increasingly common, even in active seniors. The connective tissue in the body tends to weaken with time and this also appears to play a role in limited mobility. Exercises tailored for older adults may be helpful to help build and maintain muscle strength. It may also be advisable to have a heater on a timer to warm up the rooms early in the morning.
There are a few techniques people can use to manage morning stiffness. Gentle exercise can promote healthier circulation and can help patients avoid morning stiffness. Getting proper nutrition is also helpful. Some patients may find it helpful to use heating pads on their beds and it may be helpful to apply heat in the morning to loosen up joints and muscles before getting up. A doctor may be able to recommend some stretches that patients can use when they are stiff in the morning.
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