Why Your Back Feels Stiff in the Morning, and What Might Help

Many people notice that their back or neck is at its stiffest in the first half hour after getting out of bed, then loosens up as the day goes on. Morning stiffness is common, but it is still worth understanding, especially if it is getting worse or lasting longer than it used to.

Common reasons for morning stiffness

During sleep, you move far less than you do during the day. Joints and muscles that have been still for hours can feel tight when you first ask them to work. Sleeping in one position for a long time, a pillow that pushes your neck out of line, or a mattress that no longer supports you can add to it. A busy previous day, such as yard work or a long drive, often shows up the next morning.

Gentle ways to start the day

Before standing, lie on your back and slowly bring one knee toward your chest, then the other. Roll onto your side and push up with your arms to sit, rather than sitting straight up. Take a warm shower early in your routine. Go for a short, easy walk before sitting down for breakfast or work. Look at your pillow height. Your head should stay roughly in line with your spine.

These are general ideas, not a personal prescription. Stop anything that increases pain.

When stiffness deserves a closer look

Stiffness that lasts more than an hour, wakes you during the night, comes with swelling in other joints, fever or unexplained weight loss should be discussed with a medical provider, because it can point to problems that need different care.

For ordinary mechanical stiffness, an evaluation at McNamara Chiropractic Center starts with questions about your sleep, your work and when the stiffness began. Dr. McNamara-Krauss then checks how each region of the spine moves. If chiropractic care seems appropriate, the plan may include adjustments, massage therapy with Dawn Marie Teufel, LMT, or therapeutic ultrasound, along with simple suggestions to try at home. She tells patients plainly when chiropractic care is not the right choice.

Finding the office

The practice is on Federal Highway in https://earth.google.com/earth/d/1mQ2aC3Soc1NBceowTuoSisY2E72jpCrl?usp=sharing Lighthouse Point, opposite Publix, with free parking in front and a side entrance.

McNamara Chiropractic Center

3320 North Federal Highway, Lighthouse Point, FL 33064(954) 902-6371

This content is general information and not medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your own symptoms.