Tips for Managing Morning Arthritis Pain

Note: the following is not intended as professional medical advice. Always check with your GP before adopting new ways of managing your arthritis.

Arthritis can be painful at the best of times, but in the early morning, pain and stiffness can be particularly troubling. Those who suffer from osteoarthritis may experience the stiffness for just a few minutes until, with gentle movement, it begins to ease. However, those who have inflammatory arthritis often have to contend with pain for an hour or more. Unfortunately, mornings can be one of the most demanding times of the day, which is why, if you suffer from arthritic joint pain and stiffness, the following tips can help you manage the challenge of getting up and getting going:

Warmth

Gentle warmth can help relieve stiffness and the pain associated with it. If you use an electric blanket, switching it on for a few minutes before you get up will provide warmth. Warming your clothes can help too. Pop them in bed with you for a few minutes before you get up, or pop them in the clothes drier to warm up before you get dressed. Some people find a warm shower first thing after getting out of bed is enough to relieve pain. Warming your bedroom with a safe heating device for a few minutes before you get up can also provide comfort.

All from your bed!

Exercise can feel more do-able first thing if you are still tucked up warm.

If gentle stretching is safe for you, try it before you even get out of bed.

Before you retire for the night, place your morning medication beside your bed along with a glass of water and (if you need to eat before taking medication) a few snacks. By the time you get up, the effects of your medication may already be cutting in. Some people find the best way to relieve pain is to set their alarm for a morning wake up call, take their medication, then dose off again while they wait for the medication to take effect.

Hello, morning!

Sunlight can help boost serotonin, the body’s natural chemical which promotes a feeling of well-being. As soon as you get up, open your curtains to let natural light flood into your bedroom.

Ready and waiting

Stiffness and pain make it more difficult to move about in the morning. Reduce the number of chores you have to do first thing by setting out your breakfast requirements the night before. If lifting the electric kettle is going to be difficult, heat water in a cup in the microwave. Leave your clothes within easy reach, including any aids you use to help you dress.

Plan your day

If morning is difficult for you, schedule meetups and gentle exercise for later in the day. That way, you’ll have more time to achieve chores, and reduce pain and stress.

Sleep posture

Check with your GP and arthritis association about the best position to sleep in. By supporting your body as advised, you may be able to reduce morning stiffness and pain. Ask about the best mattress for you, too.

Tools to the rescue

Ask your GP or arthritis association about tools such as can openers and special cutlery which make it easier for you to achieve simple morning tasks.

Automatic pet feeders

A hungry cat demanding its breakfast is the last thing you need when you’re feeling stiff and sore. Automatic cat feeders are not expensive and can save you getting out of bed before you’re ready to.

When you have arthritis, even the smallest of changes can make a big difference to getting the best start to the day. Think laterally about how you can help yourself, and in the meantime, be sure to ask for more suggestions from your local Arthritis Association.