Stífnað

Stífnað is a term of Icelandic origin that describes a feeling of stiffness or a reduced range of motion in muscles or joints. It is a common physiological response that can be caused by a variety of factors. One frequent cause is prolonged inactivity, such as sitting for extended periods or sleeping in an awkward position. When muscles and joints are not regularly moved, they can become less flexible.

Another significant contributor to stífnað is strenuous physical activity. After intense exercise, muscles may experience micro-tears and inflammation, leading to soreness and a sensation of stiffness as they repair themselves. This is often referred to as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Age can also play a role, as the body's tissues naturally lose some elasticity over time, making stiffness more prevalent.

Certain medical conditions can also manifest as stífnað. Arthritis, for example, is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints that commonly results in stiffness, pain, and swelling. Other conditions like fibromyalgia or certain autoimmune disorders can also cause widespread muscle and joint stiffness. While stífnað is often temporary and resolves with movement or rest, persistent or severe stiffness should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out underlying medical issues and determine appropriate management strategies.