First thing any cat does upon waking is stretch liked hell!
Don't forget to stretch down either, it eases anything that you may have pulled without noticing.
Since muscle supports/surrounds joints, staying fit helps a great deal. Of course my preferred ways of getting fit are what led to the injuries in the first place; probably the same for most of us? If I hadn't a love for martial arts and bikes, I'd be less injured, but I wouldn't be fit for my age either.
Written sitting supported by cushions whilst elevating leg/foot due to sciatica, planter fasciitis, arthritis, tarsal tunnel and (re)torn rib cartilage. Enjoying a very effective muscle relaxant isotonic sport scotch called Bell's.