Morning stiffness is a common symptom in individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. This condition can also be indicative of other joint disorders such as osteoarthritis (OA). According to the Arthritis Foundation, morning stiffness lasting more than an hour could signify the onset of RA.
To alleviate this discomfort, it’s recommended to plan ahead. Taking pain or anti-inflammatory medications about an hour before getting out of bed can be effective. It’s also advisable to keep a small snack by your bedside to avoid taking medication on an empty stomach.
What You Can Do:
Get Moving: One of the most beneficial steps is to start moving as it increases blood flow to the joints and lubricates them.
Home Remedies: Employing home remedies like targeted stretches and a warm bath can also provide relief.
It’s important to note that morning stiffness can vary depending on the type of arthritis. RA, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and OA all present with this symptom, but the characteristics may differ among these conditions.
For more detailed information and tips, visit these resources:
Healthline on RA Morning Stiffness
Healthline on RA and Morning Stiffness
WebMD on Managing Morning Stiffness
Medical News Today on RA Morning Stiffness
Verywell Health on Morning Stiffness Causes
WebMD on Beating RA Morning Pain
