Morning stiffness is stiffness in joints on first waking or after long rest. Inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid, psoriatic, ankylosing spondylitis, polymyalgia rheumatica) typically causes prolonged stiffness of over 30–60 minutes that improves with movement. Osteoarthritis stiffness is usually shorter — less than 30 minutes — and tends to return after activity. Clinicians ask about duration and pattern because it is one of the most useful clues when deciding which type of arthritis is likely.
What is morning stiffness?
Morning stiffness: Morning stiffness lasting under 30 minutes is typical of osteoarthritis. Stiffness over an hour, especially symmetrical, points to inflammatory arthritis like RA and needs urgent GP review. Duration is a key diagnostic clue.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.