What Causes Stiff Fingers in the Morning?
September 12, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Stiff fingers in the morning can be caused by various factors, and the specific cause may vary from person to person. Some common reasons for experiencing stiffness in the fingers upon waking include:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the finger joints. Stiffness in the fingers, especially in the morning, is a common symptom of osteoarthritis. The joints may feel stiff and painful after periods of inactivity, such as during sleep.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause joint inflammation and stiffness. Morning stiffness is a hallmark symptom of rheumatoid arthritis and can affect multiple joints, including the fingers.
- Inflammatory Arthritis: Other types of inflammatory arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, can also cause morning stiffness in the fingers and other joints.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed. Some individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience morning stiffness and numbness in the fingers.
- Dupuytren’s Contracture: Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition in which the tissue in the palm of the hand becomes thick and tight, causing the fingers to bend inward. This can lead to morning stiffness and difficulty straightening the affected fingers.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis in the fingers, often caused by overuse or repetitive motions, can lead to stiffness and discomfort, especially in the morning.
- Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as sleeping in a position that puts pressure on the fingers or hands, can contribute to morning finger stiffness. Additionally, cold weather can make joints and muscles feel stiffer in the morning.
- Inactivity: Lack of movement during sleep can contribute to joint stiffness. When you sleep, you may keep your fingers in a fixed position for an extended period, leading to temporary stiffness upon waking.
- Aging: As people age, joint stiffness, including in the fingers, can become more common due to wear and tear on the joints over time.
To manage morning finger stiffness, you can try gentle range-of-motion exercises, such as stretching and flexing your fingers before getting out of bed. Applying heat to the affected area or taking a warm shower may also help alleviate stiffness. If the stiffness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess your condition, conduct any necessary tests, and recommend appropriate treatment or interventions based on the underlying cause of the stiffness.