Right before i wake up, my fingers are stiff and painful. as the day goes on, the pain and stiffness goes away. possible causes?

Three possibilities: It could be either rheumatoid or osteo arthritis. If the stiffness decreases in the first hour, think more osteo, if it takes a few hours, may be rheumatoid. Discuss with your physician. The third possibility, while a little less likely, is carpal tunnel syndrome. This often can first present after sleeping (flexed wrists) and as stiffness and pain in the morning. Less likely, but possible.