Morning stiffness lasting longer than an hour is very common. RA affects women more than men, striking in their thirties and forties. Anklylosing spondylitis generally affects young men between the ages of 15 to 45 and is characterized by a stiff backbone, accompanied by low back pain. The goal is to reduce pain and improve joint mobility. Among those treatments, exercise is perhaps the most important, whether it be some form of stretching, isometrics, or simple endurance exercise.
Exercise seems to provide both physical relief and psychological benefits.
For example, it prevents the muscles from shrinking, while inactivity encourages both loss of muscle tone and bone deterioration. Too much exercise, however, will cause more pain in those with rheumatoid arthritis. One form of exercise that's effective and soothing is hydrotherapy, or movement done in water. It allows freedom of movement and puts less stress on the joints because nearly all of the body weight is supported by the water. Doctors highly recommend swimming, too.