You wake up, swing your legs out of bed, and... ouch. Your knees feel like rusty hinges that refuse to move.

After shuffling to the bathroom and moving around for 15 minutes, they start to feel normal again.

This is a classic symptom known as Morning Stiffness. Here is why it happens and what it tells you about your joint health.

Why Do Joints Get Stiff Overnight?

Synovial fluid is the oil in your joint engine. When you are inactive (sleeping), this fluid can thicken or become gel-like.

Once you start moving, the fluid warms up and thins out, lubricating the joint again.
This is often called the "Gelling Phenomenon."

In arthritic joints, inflammation can pool while you are still, causing tissues to swell slightly and tighten up.

What Does the Duration Tell You?

The length of time the stiffness lasts is a key medical clue.

Less than 30 minutes: Usually indicates Osteoarthritis (Wear and Tear). The joint just needs to warm up.
More than 1 hour: Can indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. This requires a rheumatologist's attention.

Don't just jump out of bed. Try this routine:

Bed Exercises: Before standing up, do some "heel slides" (bending and straightening your knee) while lying in bed to pump the fluid.
Warm Shower: The heat helps relax tight muscles and improves blood flow.
Night-Time Prep: Using an anti-inflammatory gel or a warm compress before sleep can reduce overnight inflammation.

Morning stiffness is often the first whisper of arthritis.

If your "rustiness" is becoming a daily struggle, it's time for a check-up.

👉 Consult Dr. Abhijit Kale to keep your joints moving smoothly.