Stiffness after sleep or long sitting is common and usually eases once you start moving. Joints benefit from a gentle start, not a sudden sprint. This is general information, not a diagnosis.
Ten morning minutes
- Before getting up, move your ankles and fingers five times.
- Slowly bend and straighten your knees while still lying down.
- Sit up and circle your shoulders and neck a few times, without force.
- Stand and walk around the home for two minutes.
- Finish with a gentle stretch of calves and thighs.
Through the day
Do not stay in one position for long. Stand up every half hour to hour, even for a minute. Move regularly: aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, such as brisk walking or cycling, with strength work on two days. If you are overweight, even a modest loss reduces the load on your joints.
After stretching you can massage the thigh and calf muscles. You can compare Aloe Heat Lotion as a muscle massage lotion, following the pack directions. Do not apply it to a swollen, red or injured joint or to damaged skin, and it does not replace treatment.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if pain does not ease, a joint is swollen, red or warm, it locks, you have a fever with pain, or morning stiffness lasts longer than half an hour, especially in several joints. Do not stop prescribed treatment and do not take supplements without medical advice.
Sources: NHS.
Common questions
Is stiffness after sitting normal?
Brief stiffness that eases with movement is common. If it persists, worsens or the joint is swollen, see a doctor.
How much movement is enough?
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week plus strength work on two days, adapted to your health.
Before first use
Choose products for your dietary routine and care needs. Follow a healthcare professional’s advice for diagnosis and treatment of symptoms. Check suitability first during pregnancy and for use by children.
