What is the recommended practice for managing morning stiffness in clients?

The practice of using a resting pan orthosis is focused on providing support and rest to affected joints, which can be especially beneficial for clients experiencing morning stiffness. This type of orthosis helps to maintain optimal joint positioning, reduces pain, and allows for a decreased range of motion to prevent over-exertion of the joints during the night. By keeping the joints in a neutral position, the orthosis can reduce stiffness and discomfort when the client starts their day.

In managing morning stiffness, other strategies may also be effective, such as gentle stretching exercises, which can help improve flexibility and range of motion. However, these may not specifically address the immediate stiffness that many clients experience upon waking. Similarly, while heat therapy can be beneficial by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tension, it may not be practical to apply heat throughout the day or might not provide the necessary support during periods of rest. Increasing physical activity may help manage overall symptoms, but it could exacerbate stiffness if clients are not prepared or adequately warmed up. Thus, utilizing a resting pan orthosis is a targeted approach aimed specifically at alleviating morning stiffness for clients.