- Increased pain
- Reduced mobility
- Decreased confidence with normal activities
- Reduced range of movement
![Stretches and mobilisations of the muscles and connective tissues in the lower back Stretches and mobilisations of the muscles and connective tissues in the lower back](/images/stiffness/stiffness1.jpg)
What causes stiffness?
There are a variety of reasons which potentially could cause stiffness at joints and muscles. Some of the most common causes are:
- Arthritis
- Immobilisation for a period of time
- Aging process (loss of elasticity in tissues)
- Swelling and inflammation
- Surgery
- Soft tissue injury
- Overuse / exertion
![Stretches and mobilisation of the hip and knee joints by experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapist Stretches and mobilisation of the hip and knee joints by experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapist](/images/stiffness/stiffness2.jpg)
How can Physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy can help with both muscle and joint stiffness in clients through assessment, advice and treatment and appropriate. Physiotherapy can help stiffness by:
- Increasing joint range of movement
- Increasing muscle length
- Decreasing pain
- Offering self-management strategies
- Sign posting to other appropriate medical services as necessary
What Physiotherapy Treatments can be expected for stiffness?
![Stretches of the muscles and connective tissues in the neck by experienced Physiotherapist Stretches of the muscles and connective tissues in the neck by experienced Physiotherapist](/images/stiffness/stiffness3.jpg)
For joint and muscle stiffness there are several Physiotherapeutic techniques which can be used to help. Some of the techniques include:
- Joint mobilisations
- Range of movement exercises
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Electrotherapy (PSWD, Interferential, TENS)
- Acupuncture
- Massage
![Physiotherapist mobilisaing the metatarsal joints in the foot to relieve stiffness and aching Physiotherapist mobilisaing the metatarsal joints in the foot to relieve stiffness and aching](/images/stiffness/stiffness4.jpg)
Summary
Stiffness is a symptom which is produced by many injuries and conditions. The experienced Physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk can help treat the symptom through different therapeutic modalities and advice. For a professional high quality service please contact us or call 0330 088 7800 to arrange an appointment.