JOINT STIFFNESS CAN LEAD TO ARTHRITIS

Joint stiffness is the sensation of difficulty in moving a joint or the apparent loss of range of motion of a joint. Joint stiffness often accompanies joint pain and swelling. Depending on the cause of joint stiffness, joint redness, tenderness, warmth, tingling, or numbness of an affected area of the body may be present. Joint stiffness can be caused by injury or disease of the joint and is a common finding in arthritis. Joint damage including stiffness can also occur following injury to the joint.

It’s usually most noticeable in the morning. It often eases up after an hour or two, but it can last all day. You may feel it in areas like Fingers and hands, Wrists, Elbows, Knees, Ankles, Feet, Shoulders and Hips etc.

There are many causes of stiff joints. Sudden joint stiffness may be due to an injury, while joint stiffness that develops and worsens over time may be due to an underlying disorder or disease. The primary cause of joint stiffness is arthritis, which is inflammation of the joints due to a variety of causes.

As a disease, arthritis is more complicated than most people imagine. It can come in different forms and affect people in different ways.

Arthritis is a problem which can’t be cured completely. The pain may be managed and kept under control through medication and other measures.

Some of the things which may be done to control and manage the pain are as follows

·        taking appropriate medicines

·        staying physically active and following a fitness program focusing on moderate exercise

·        stretching prior to exercising to maintain a good range of motion in the joints

·        keeping your body weight within a healthy range, which will lessen stress on the joints

·        getting regular massage

·        getting adequate rest

These are some general tips for relieving the pain and keeping it under control. But it is very important to consult a competent doctor and follow the advice given by him/her when the problem increases.
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