Why Does Your Body Feel Stiffer When You Wake Up?
Article featured on Brown Health University
Have you ever wondered why your joints are stiff in the morning? There are many reasons you may be feeling this — some are just part of a normal process, and others may be cause for concern.
For people who suffer from arthritis, this morning pain or stiffness may be caused by a lack of lubrication in the joint spaces, or from a breakdown in the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. This can happen in your back, fingers, wrists, knees, ankles, or feet.
Many who experience this morning pain find it is short-lived, resolving on its own within 10 or 15 minutes. For others, though, it may linger and begin to affect the rest of the day.
Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent or reduce the amount of morning stiffness you experience.
- Sleep. Be sure you get plenty of deep sleep. This is how your body and mind refuel and recharge. It is when healing agents within your body repair areas that are in need. Be sure to allow time for this process to happen.
- Your Mattress. Consider the condition of your mattress. If it is too firm, too soft, or not supportive, this can lead to poor sleeping positions and overnight strain on certain muscles.
- Gentle Stretching. Before getting out of bed, do some gentle stretching while you are still cozy under the covers. Gently do ankle circles and ankle pumps, wrist circles, and bend your knees and hips.
- Hot shower. Start your day with a hot shower. The warmth of the shower can help relax stiff muscles and bring comfort to your morning.
- Be active. During your day, include periods of activity. Exercise, walk, and/or stretch during the day. If you sit for extended periods of time, make time to change position. Be sure your desk or comfortable chair is supportive and does not contribute to muscle strain.
- Eat well. Be aware of how your diet affects your joints. Certain foods can cause inflammation or can affect your ability to fall asleep if consumed close to bedtime. Being mindful of your diet can help prevent joint stiffness upon waking.
- Take your medicine. If you have been prescribed medication to help with your joint discomfort or stiffness, set your alarm and take it 30 minutes to an hour before you get out of bed. Then your medication will begin to work as you need to start your day.
Hopefully these tips can help you reduce or even prevent your morning joint pain and stiffness. However, if you experience any of the following, you may want to seek further evaluation with an expert:
- morning muscle/joint pain that lasts more than an hour
- joint stiffness involving your back, to a point where you have difficulty taking a deep breath
- ongoing numbness or tingling in your arms or legs along with your joint pain
