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Morning Stiffness? It Could Be Osteoarthritis
11 Mar
Summary
- Nearly half of Indians aged 45+ report morning joint stiffness.
- Osteoarthritis involves cartilage wear, affecting women significantly.
- Stiffness may signal osteoarthritis if accompanied by other symptoms.
Nearly half of individuals aged 45 and older in India experience morning joint stiffness, with 31% reporting back pain and 20% foot pain. Stiffness upon waking can indicate osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease caused by cartilage wear. This condition significantly affects women, with 63.4% impacted, particularly post-menopausal women aged 45-50.
Osteoarthritis symptoms include cartilage degeneration, inflammation, reduced joint lubrication, and the formation of bone spurs. Age-related weakening of joints, especially during menopause, also contributes. While osteoarthritis management focuses on symptom control, other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, vitamin D deficiency, or poor posture can also cause morning stiffness.
Seeking medical attention is crucial if stiffness persists beyond 30 minutes, is accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth, or impedes daily activities. Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and imaging, with treatment focusing on lifestyle changes, pain management strategies, physiotherapy, and medication.
