Joint stiffness is characterized by difficulty in moving certain joints and/or the loss of motion in a particular joint. This stiffness is normally accompanied by pain and swelling. It can be caused by injury to the particular joint; inflammation of adjacent body parts or conditions such as arthritis which tend to affects the bones.
There are different types of joint stiffness and the most common is morning stiffness, which is mostly felt in the morning. This could be due to inactivity, a poor sleep posture, poor diet that is high in carbohydrates or being overweight. Chronic stiffness is more complex and this could lead to partial immobility of the affected joints.
The major areas affected by stiffness include: shoulders, wrists, knees, feet, ankles, hips, jaws and elbows.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of joint stiffness include: pain on movement and within certain joints. This could be felt in different degrees depending on the cause. Loss of motion may also be experienced and this is common in joint stiffness brought about by arthritis in its advanced stages. Besides loss of motion in the morning, the patient may also have decreased flexibility and range of motion, whereby the patient cannot effectively use various joints to full effect. Muscle cramps may also be felt around the affected joints.
Treatments
There are various treatment options to pursue when treating joint stiffness and these include: heat and cold compresses, exercise, pain medication and supplements. Cold therapy is used to reduce inflammation and swelling while relaxing the muscle. Hot compression on the other hand is used to enhance blood circulation hence increasing the rate of healing. Exercise is not a word that people suffering from stiff joints want to hear, but it goes a long a way alleviating the stiffness. Inactivity actually makes the joints stiffer and more painful. Exercise helps strengthen the surrounding muscles, and this means that it can enhance bone strength as well. Pain medication is often given to patients and mostly NSAIDS will be given to reduce inflammation and pain. Narcotic medications also may be prescribed and these are stronger pain killers. Corticosteroid medication also could be prescribed.
Diet
An unhealthy diet fills the body with toxins, which increase the presence of radicals that encourage inflammation and stiffness by tightening the muscles, hence causing spasms. Instead, consume foods that are rich in calcium which helps to develop healthy bones. Yogurt, salmon, broccoli and figs are all great sources of salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the production of chemicals which trigger and spread inflation. Good sources of omega-3 include sea food such as salmon along with flaxseeds, soy beans, walnuts and canola oil. Vitamin D helps in preventing swelling and pain and you could boost your intake of these nutrients with supplements. One research shows that sugar can increase inflammation so it may be beneficial to avoid foods filled with sweeteners. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Ensure that your body is getting all the nutrients it needs.
Remedies
Other than the common treatment options, you can also pursue other remedies to help relieve joint stiffness. Homeopathic ingredients like Matricaria recutita and magnesium phosphoricum contain potent anti-inflammatory properties which can help relieve stiff joints. They are also known for their soothing powers. Stay active and eat healthy.
