Physical Therapy for Stiffness After Sitting
Learn how physical therapy can help relieve stiffness after sitting. Understand the treatment process, expected timeline for relief, and what to expect.
Medically Reviewed Content by Medical Review Team, MD
Reviewed Jan 24, 2026
How Physical Therapy Helps Stiffness After Sitting
Physical Therapy is one of several treatment options that may help address stiffness after sitting. This treatment works by targeting the underlying causes of your symptoms to provide relief.
Physical therapy addresses stiffness after sitting through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education about body mechanics. This approach helps strengthen supporting muscles and improve joint function.
What You Can Expect
- Initial improvement in symptoms typically within 2-4 weeks
- Full benefits usually experienced by 6-12 weeks
- Duration of relief varies; ongoing with maintenance
- Results may vary based on individual factors and condition severity
Expected Timeline for Symptom Relief
Initial Relief: 2-4 weeks
Most patients begin to notice some improvement in stiffness after sitting during this period. Early changes may include reduced intensity or frequency of symptoms.
Full Benefit: 6-12 weeks
The maximum benefit from physical therapy is typically experienced during this timeframe. This is when you can best evaluate how well the treatment is working for your stiffness after sitting.
Duration: Ongoing with maintenance
The lasting effects of treatment vary by individual. Your healthcare provider can advise on maintenance treatments or follow-up care to sustain relief.
Individual results vary. The timeline above is a general guide. Your experience may differ based on your specific condition, overall health, and how well you respond to treatment.
Conditions That Cause Stiffness After Sitting
Stiffness After Sitting is commonly associated with these conditions. Understanding the underlying cause of your symptoms helps ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.
Bursitis
Complete guide to bursitis affecting the shoulder, hip, knee, and elbow. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatments for this common cause of joint pain.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Comprehensive guide to knee osteoarthritis (OA) - the most common form of arthritis affecting 32 million Americans. Learn about symptoms, stages, and evidence-based treatments.
Other Treatments for Stiffness After Sitting
Get Relief from Stiffness After Sitting
Talk to a specialist about whether physical therapy is right for your situation.