Stiff joints can be painful and uncomfortable, especially if you suffer from arthritis or some other inflammatory joint disease. For many of us, stiff joints take a long time to relax back into normal movements, and they can sometimes prevent range of motion all together.

Some of the causes of stiff joints include:

• Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout, commonly found in the big toe
• Infectious diseases, including hepatitis, influenza, lyme disease, measles, mumps, parvovirus and many more
• Injuries to joints either through physical activity, falls, or athletic activities
• Sprains and strains, including joint overuse.
• Tendonitis with repetitive motions over time

There are a few things to consider if you suffer from stiff joints that may help ease your discomfort and improve your daily function:

• Treatment with hot and cold applications can alleviate stiff joint pain and discomfort and help improve range of motion quickly. Cold reduces swelling and calms nerves while heat increases blood circulation.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can provide temporary relief while you get your stiff joints moving again.
• Exercise can actually improve your range of motion and overall body function. Lack of exercise may be the cause of some of your joint stiffness, and getting moving can alleviate this issue.
• Alternative medicines sometimes work for those who choose not to use prescription or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs. These alternatives come in the forms of supplements, which may include glucosamine or chondroitin.

If you suffer from stiff joints and can’t seem to find relief, you may want to consider one of these options to help you on the road to recovery. Knowing the cause of your stiff joints is the first step to determining what level of care is needed for improved daily function.  Let us help you find a solution to improving your daily function and ease the burden of stiff joint pain.