Which disorder is characterized by morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes and pain with function?

The disorder characterized by morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes and pain with function is osteoarthritis. In osteoarthritis, patients typically experience stiffness upon waking or after periods of inactivity, but this stiffness usually resolves relatively quickly, often within 30 minutes. This distinguishes osteoarthritis from other inflammatory arthritis conditions where morning stiffness might last longer, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Additionally, osteoarthritis is characterized by pain that is exacerbated by activity and improved with rest. The pain arises from mechanical wear on the joints, damage to cartilage, and changes in the underlying bones, which together lead to pain during functional movements. This aligns with the description of having pain with function.

In contrast, disorders like rheumatoid arthritis present with prolonged morning stiffness and involve systemic inflammatory processes. Gout typically involves acute episodes of pain and swelling in specific joints rather than a consistent pattern of pain with function. Multiple sclerosis does not primarily present with joint stiffness or pain; rather, it affects the nervous system, leading to a range of neurological symptoms.