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Back pain when getting up

You wake up, stretch, and your back feels stiff and sore. Many people experience this problem, but often the pain disappears once you start moving. Still, back pain upon waking can be a signal that something in your posture, mattress, or health isn’t quite right. In this blog, you’ll discover why that morning pain occurs, how to reduce it, and how the MotiMove app can help you get out of bed more smoothly. No time to read, download the app right away!

What you’ll discover in this blog

  • What is back pain upon waking?
  • Possible causes
  • Risk factors
  • When to see a doctor?
  • Tips to start the day pain-free
  • The importance of movement and good posture
  • How the MotiMove app helps
  • Frequently asked questions

What is back pain upon waking? 

Back pain upon waking often feels as if your back has been in “pause mode” all night. The muscles and joints are stiff, and the first fifteen minutes of your day can therefore be uncomfortable. Moving often helps to loosen things up again. But sometimes the pain lingers, which can significantly affect daily life. It’s a signal that there may be more going on than just a poor sleeping posture.

Possible causes

  • Incorrect sleeping position, such as sleeping on your stomach
  • Poor mattress or pillow that doesn’t provide enough support
  • Overloading back muscles from lifting or prolonged sitting
  • Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatism
  • Osteoarthritis in the spine
  • Too little movement, causing muscles to weaken

Risk factors 

Not everyone experiences back pain upon waking. However, there are circumstances that increase the risk. For example, those who spend long days at a desk give the back little chance to stay strong. Excess weight can also play a role, as extra kilos put more pressure on the spine. And then there’s age, because as we get older, the flexibility of our back decreases.

When to see a doctor? 

  • Pain lasting longer than 6 weeks
  • Fever, weight loss, or tingling in the legs
  • Severe pain without a clear cause
  • Pain that keeps getting worse

Tips to start the day pain-free 

Start your morning calmly. Turn onto your side before getting out of bed and place your feet on the floor slowly. Sit for a moment to let your body adjust. A few light stretches will wake up your back muscles. Don’t forget your mattress: a good base is just as important as good movement. This gives your back the best start to the day.

The importance of movement and good posture 

  • Movement strengthens the back muscles
  • It improves circulation
  • Reduces stiffness and pain
  • Prevents new complaints

How the MotiMove app helps 

The MotiMove app is your digital coach for back problems. In the app you’ll find exercise videos designed to strengthen and keep back muscles flexible. You can track your own progress and receive motivating tips to keep moving. You’ll also learn more about how pain works, so you better understand what’s happening in your back. This way, you start the day not only without pain, but also with more energy.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) 

Why do I have back pain mainly in the morning?

You move less at night, which leads to stiffness.

Does a new mattress help against back pain?

Yes, a mattress that provides good support can make a big difference.

Can I exercise with back pain?

Yes, but choose gentle forms of movement such as walking, swimming, or exercises from MotiMove.

How quickly can back pain improve?

That varies per person and cause: sometimes days, sometimes weeks.

Download MotiMove today and discover how daily movement makes your back healthier and stronger.

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