Starting the day feeling like a stiffened rope.
If you are dealing with rheumatoid arthritis or leading a predominantly sedentary lifestyle, waking up with stiff and possibly painful joints might be a common occurrence for you. It’s one thing when your joints crack loudly one after the other in the morning. Joint cracking itself is usually harmless. However, if that cracking is accompanied by pain or swelling, or worse, if your joints are unable to crack and remain stuck in painful, rigid positions, then it’s a cause for concern.
When dealing with frequent stiff and painful joints, there are several techniques you can use, both in your morning routine and throughout the day, to provide some relief. Right after waking up, but before getting out of bed, perform some gentle stretches under your blanket. Rotate your wrists and ankles, and flex your knees and elbows. Following this, enjoy a warm shower. The heat from the water will help relax your muscles, allowing your joints to move more freely.
Throughout the day, aim to move and shift your body whenever possible. Remaining sedentary can cause your muscles and joints to become fixed in place, so keep them mobile and flexible to prevent stiffness. Additionally, be mindful of your diet, as certain foods can trigger joint inflammation, especially if consumed close to bedtime.
Speaking of bedtime, it plays a crucial role in joint health. Ensure you get sufficient rest every night, and do so on a mattress that caters to your body’s need for either softness or firmness. A mattress that doesn’t provide adequate support can lead to uncomfortable sleeping positions that strain your joints.
