Are you like me and find you're often stiff in the mornings? I often find my left hip is a bit sore. Osteoarthritis is probably the cause for me, but it can also be worn joints or muscle tightness....
Are you like me and find you're often stiff in the mornings? I often find my left hip is a bit sore. Osteoarthritis is probably the cause for me, but it can also be worn joints or muscle tightness. As we age, the cartilage protecting the joint dries and stiffens, and also the joint is less well lubricated with synovial fluid. Importantly, for managing stiffness and pain, "weak muscles and stiff tendons tend to tighten during sleep" (Harvard Health online).I don't have a consistent "fix", but use Alexander Technique to help. I watch my reactions, ask in different ways for my whole body to lengthen, and importantly try to avoid tightening around the pain. I also apply the Technique on a morning walk, and when doing the hamstring and quad stretches that also help. Finally, constructive rest reduces stiffness and makes us aware of how we tighten up. Try it in the mornings, and at night before bed. Let me know if you need help with it.