Joint Stiffness

Do you wake up with stiff knees or struggle to straighten your fingers after sitting for a while? Ariel Curtis, FNP-C, at Joint Health Solutions in Charlotte, North Carolina, can discover what’s going on and develop a treatment plan that gets you moving again. Joint stiffness affects people of all ages, and while it’s often harmless, it can signal something more serious. To find out what’s causing your joint stiffness, call the office or reach out online to book an appointment today.

What causes joint stiffness?

Joint stiffness happens when you feel resistance or reduced flexibility in a joint. You might notice it in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Common causes include:

Aging

As you age, your joints naturally lose some of their lubrication. Cartilage may wear down, and the joint’s range of motion can decrease, leading to stiffness, especially first thing in the morning.

Inactivity

Sitting for long periods without moving your joints can make them feel stiff when you get up. Regular movement helps keep joints lubricated and mobile.

Overuse or injury

Too much strain from repetitive movement (like typing or running) or a previous injury can lead to joint stiffness.

Inflammation

Conditions like arthritis cause inflammation in the joints, which can result in pain, swelling, stiffness, and ongoing joint damage. There are many types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis is the most common.

Autoimmune conditions

Chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriatic arthritis cause the immune system to mistakenly attack the joints, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and joint damage over time.

When should you worry about joint stiffness?

Most joint stiffness isn't serious and improves with movement, but you should see a medical provider if you notice:

• Stiffness lasting more than 15-30 minutes after waking up
• Redness, warmth, or swelling in the joint
• Ongoing pain or stiffness that’s getting worse
• Limited range of motion that interferes with your daily activities

Fever or fatigue accompanied by joint symptoms require immediate care since these could be signs of an underlying infection or chronic disease.

What should you expect during treatment?

Treatment for joint stiffness depends on the cause, but the goal is always to reduce stiffness, improve movement, and prevent long-term joint damage.

At Joint Health Solutions, Ariel Curtis, FNP-C, may recommend:

• Lifestyle changes and activity modification
• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Joint injections

Don’t ignore joint stiffness that’s persistent, painful, or limiting your daily routine. Early treatment can make a big difference in managing your symptoms and protecting your joints in the long run.

Schedule a visit at Joint Health Solutions today. Call the office or book an appointment online. Relief could be just a step (or stretch) away.