How long does it take your joints to loosen up in the morning? Stiffness that improves within about 30 minutes of moving is more common with osteoarthritis. If you’re still stiff 30 to 60 minutes later, it may point to an inflammatory type of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Try this tomorrow: Check the clock when you get up. Notice when your joints start feeling easier to move and write it down. Repeat this for a few mornings. It won’t tell you whether you have arthritis, but it gives your physiotherapist or healthcare provider information when figuring out what’s causing your stiffness.