Your spine and joints are designed for movement. When you sleep, you’re still for long periods and that affects how your body feels when you wake.

Overnight:

• Joint lubrication reduces
• Muscles cool and tighten
• Connective tissue loses elasticity
• Spinal discs absorb fluid, increasing pressure

The result is that “locked up” sensation first thing in the morning. Occasional stiffness is normal. Persistent stiffness is a signal—and one worth listening to.