Feeling stiff and achy upon waking up or during the day is often linked to periods of inactivity, such as sleeping or long hours in front of a computer. To combat this, it’s beneficial to plan regular movement breaks and try stretches focusing on the stiff or achy areas.
Stiffness in the back, knees, or feet is a common issue among older individuals. This condition is frequently attributed to aging, but it’s not solely caused by getting older. Instead, it often indicates worn joints, muscle tightness, or inflammation from arthritis.
The most prevalent symptom of ankylosing spondylitis is low back pain and/or neck pain, characterized by morning stiffness and limited motion. This stiffness generally improves with exercise and remains unaffected by rest. The second most common symptom is joint pain in the hips, shoulders, knees, chest wall, or other areas.
According to Alice Chen, MD, a physiatrist at HSS, Livestrong.com shares insights into the reasons for morning muscle stiffness and ways to alleviate the soreness. Sometimes, the cause of your morning muscle stiffness can be as simple as your sleeping position.
When it comes to seeking help for low back pain, there are various ways to ease discomfort and reduce disability, often without the need for medication. Pain from ruptured discs and arthritis doesn’t have to be debilitating. Walking upright, a unique human trait, comes with its own set of spinal challenges.
In cases of inflammatory arthritis, including ankylosing spondylitis and related conditions, there is pain in the lower back accompanied by morning stiffness in the back, hips, or both. Exercise tends to improve back pain in these conditions.
For more information, you can refer to the following sources: Harvard Health Blog, Harvard Health, Hospital for Special Surgery, and Harvard Health.
