How to Cure Stiffness

A stiff joint is painful and difficult to move. Joint stiffness is not a disease in itself, but a symptom of an underlying condition. Stiffness can be caused by a variety of things, including autoimmune diseases, infections, overuse and injury. Acute joint stiffness typically goes away in a couple of weeks. Chronic joint stiffness, on the other hand, is usually incurable. Regardless of the type, you can take certain measures to greatly reduce stiffness and pain.

Things You'll Need

• NSAIDs
• Heating pad

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Instructions

• 1

  Stretch the affected joint three times a day, once when you wake up, once before bed and some time during the day. Stretch the joint slowly for no more than five minutes at a time.

• 2

  Apply a heating pad to the stiff area for 15 minutes up to three times a day. Wrap the heating pad in a light towel or sheet before putting it on your skin.

• 3

  Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation. A decrease in inflammation leads to less pain and stiffness. Take NSAIDs exactly as directed on the label.

• 4

  Get eight hours of sleep each night. The body heals best when it's resting. Adequate sleep will allow your body to recover from stiffness more readily.