Which type of arthritis is identified by less than 30 minutes of morning stiffness?

Osteoarthritis is characterized by less than 30 minutes of morning stiffness, making it distinguishable from other types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, which typically exhibit prolonged stiffness. In osteoarthritis, the stiffness generally resolves shortly after movement begins, rather than persisting throughout the day.

The pathophysiology of osteoarthritis involves degenerative changes in the cartilage and underlying bone, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Unlike inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, where morning stiffness can last for several hours, osteoarthritis tends to present with more localized symptoms and typically affects weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

In summary, the hallmark of osteoarthritis in the context of morning stiffness—being less than 30 minutes—accurately reflects its non-inflammatory nature and allows for effective differentiation from other types of arthritis.