Does pain equal progress?
One may wonder, why do my joints hurt after working out? Physical workouts can strain muscles and joints of the body. Bodies normally get sore when both muscle and connective tissue around it get damaged during exercise. This is generally considered to be small-scale damage. The body can recover as one continues to exercise at a similar level of intensity. So, in some cases pain does equal progress.
New routines
When beginning new exercise routines, or increasing intensity and pace, it is normal to experience some light soreness, stiffness, pain, or swelling. However, minor conditions should subside with rest. Cases of intense pain, or discomfort that does not subside with rest, or worsens, must be medically investigated.
There’s a difference
Muscle pain
It’s important to note that joint and muscle pain are different medical conditions. Muscle soreness is generally felt when the body is in motion. It often subsides when the body is at rest, thus rest is one solution for the reduction of muscle sensitivity. Muscle tenderness is also likely to affect specific muscles repeatedly used during exercise.
Joint pain
In some cases, joint pain may be the result of a medical condition such as arthritis. While joint pain may happen during exercise, it may also occur in the absence of exercise and in joints of the body not exposed to repeated use.
So, is exercise bad?
Absolutely not! In general, exercise is a healthy activity that is beneficial to the body. In fact, some exercises can reduce joint pain in people with arthritis. Per Orthopedic Associates of Michigan, “Exercise releases endorphins, which improves blood flow to the affected area. This in turn can increase your range of motion and ease joint pain, both of these effects can make you feel better.”
There’s a but…
But joint pain following a workout may indicate inflammation or joint damage. This can occur when workouts are too intense, or when exercise puts pressure on the joints. While some muscular soreness is normal, any type of sharp joint pain, or joint pain that does not cease following exercise, should be medically evaluated. A person should resist putting stress on painful joints to prevent further damage.
If you have arthritis
Prior to working out, a person with painful joints, arthritis, or other medical conditions should consult with their doctor to learn what forms of exercise are most appropriate.
CDC recommendations
For those experiencing pain following exercise, the CDC offers some guidance. They suggest the following:
- Modifying physical activity by exercising less frequently, for shorter periods, or with less intensity until the pain improves.
- Switching to a gentler form of exercise such as swimming or water aerobics.
- Doing proper warm-ups and cool-downs before and after exercise. For more information, visit the Arthritis Foundation
The CDC also advises people to see their doctors should they experience any of the following:
- Sharp, stabbing, or constant pain
- Limps
- Pain lasting two or more hours
- Pain that increases at night
- Pain or swelling that does not improve with rest or hot or cold packs
- Pain or swelling that does not improve with medication
- Increased swelling in joints
- Joints that feel hot or red
The bottom line
Many people ask, “Why do my joints hurt after exercise?” While it’s normal for muscles and/or joints to be slightly sore when getting used to new activities or exercise levels, note that red, hot, swollen, or painful joints may indicate injury, trauma, infection, or other serious conditions. Thus, they require prompt medical evaluation. Curious why joints may hurt after drinking? Click here to learn more.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a medical resource. Consult your doctor for medical advice.
