Stiffness in joints in the morning
With increasing age, people often complain that as soon as they wake up in the morning, they feel severe stiffness in their hands, legs and joints (Morning Stiffness). For some people, it takes 15 to 30 minutes to get up from bed and even walk normally. In the language of medical science, it is called ‘morning stiffness’, and it can be an early alarm of any inflammation developing inside the body or joint disease.
Do you know why this health problem occurs? If someone is affected by it then what methods should he adopt for treatment? Let us tell you through experts…
Main scientific reasons for morning stiffness
Dr. Ishwar Bohra (Senior Director, Joint Replacement Programme, BLK Max Super Specialty Hospital) Says drying up of joint lubricant (Synovial Fluid): There is a thick fluid between our joints called ‘Synovial Fluid’, which helps the joints to function smoothly. When we remain immobile overnight, the cartilage absorbs this fluid. When you wake up in the morning, there is stiffness in the joints due to lack of lubrication, which gradually gets cured with movement.
Osteoarthritis: According to a report by ‘The Lancet’, crores of people in India are suffering from osteoarthritis. In this the cartilage of the joints gets worn out. In this condition, morning stiffness usually lasts for less than 30 minutes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints. If morning stiffness persists for more than 1 hour, it could be a clear sign of rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
Bad posture and Vitamin D deficiency: Sleeping wrongly at night or severe deficiency of Vitamin D3 and calcium in the body also makes the muscles and joints stiff.
ways to get relief
Experts say that if this problem is bothering you continuously, then first of all consult a rheumatologist or orthopedic expert and get a blood test (like RA Factor, CRP) and X-ray done.
For immediate relief: As soon as you wake up in the morning, apply a light warm compress to the affected joints. Do light stretching exercises in bed so that blood circulation increases. Include omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory foods (like turmeric, ginger) in your diet.
