Hand stiffness in the morning is often due to inactivity overnight, leading to fluid accumulation and reduced joint lubrication, but it can also be a symptom of underlying conditions like arthritis.
Here's a breakdown of the potential causes:
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Inactivity: During sleep, your hands are often still, which can cause fluids to accumulate in the tissues around the joints. This reduced movement also decreases joint lubrication, leading to stiffness.
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Osteoarthritis (OA): This common age-related form of arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Morning stiffness is a typical symptom as the joints haven't been moved or "warmed up" for several hours.
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Inflammatory Arthritis: Morning stiffness is a key symptom of inflammatory types of arthritis, including:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joint lining (synovium). Morning stiffness in RA can last for hours.
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): A type of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. It also causes inflammation and morning stiffness.
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Other Potential Causes: While less common, other conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis can contribute to hand stiffness, especially in the morning.
What Can You Do?
If you experience persistent morning stiffness, especially if accompanied by pain, swelling, or redness, it's crucial to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Here are some general tips that may help:
- Gentle Exercises: Simple hand exercises, like making fists and spreading your fingers, can help improve circulation and reduce stiffness.
- Warm Water Soak: Soaking your hands in warm water can help relax muscles and improve joint mobility.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication.
- Adaptive Tools: If your stiffness makes it difficult to perform daily tasks, consider using adaptive tools to ease the strain on your hands.
- See a Doctor: Crucially, if the stiffness is severe or doesn't improve with home remedies, seek medical advice to rule out underlying conditions. A doctor can properly diagnose the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
