Morning Stiffness: Clinical Meaning

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and eventual joint damage. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA is systemic and can affect organs including the heart and lungs.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. It causes chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back and can lead to fusion of spinal vertebrae. It is more common in men.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica affects people over 50, causing severe aching and stiffness of the shoulders, hips, and neck that is worse in the morning. ESR and CRP are markedly elevated; it responds dramatically to corticosteroids.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and cognitive difficulties ("fibro fog"). Central sensitization is the underlying mechanism; multimodal treatment includes exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medications.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia at its insertion on the heel bone, causing sharp heel pain on first steps in the morning. It is the most common cause of heel pain; stretching exercises, orthoses, and physiotherapy are first-line treatments.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is inflammatory arthritis affecting some people with psoriasis. It causes joint pain, stiffness and swelling ranging from mild to severe with potential for joint damage.