Is Moving Good for Your Joints? Yes, But When?

Movement is undeniably beneficial for joint health, but the timing and approach matter greatly. This article breaks down why movement is encouraged for joint pathologies, how the acute and chronic phases differ, and what chronic pain really means.

1. Movement Is Encouraged for Joint Pathologies

It’s a common misconception that movement should be avoided when experiencing joint pain or pathology. On the contrary, staying active is crucial. Avoiding movement due to fear of pain can lead to worse outcomes, especially in the long term. However, the approach depends on whether the pain occurs during the acute phase or the chronic phase of the condition. (1)

2. Acute vs. Chronic Phases: What’s the Difference?

The acute phase is when the body is actively repairing the affected joint. During this phase, inflammation plays a key role in healing. While it’s important to avoid overloading the joint, maintaining some degree of movement—such as gentle exercises to preserve range of motion, flexibility, and muscle strength—has proven effective. Early intervention during the acute phase helps prevent complications and reduces the risk of the condition becoming chronic.

In contrast, the chronic phase is different. Pain that persists beyond three months is no longer primarily caused by structural damage but rather by changes in the nervous system. This shift requires a different approach to management.

3. What Does Chronic Mean?

The term “chronic” doesn’t imply severity or hopelessness—it simply refers to the duration of the pain. When pain persists for more than three months, it becomes less about the joint’s physical structure and more about how the nervous system processes pain signals. Chronic pain is largely driven by the brain’s response, rather than ongoing tissue damage.

This is why movement remains critical, even in the chronic phase. Staying active can help retrain the nervous system, improve function, and reduce pain perception. (2)

Conclusion

Moving is indeed good for your joints—but understanding when and how to move is essential. Whether you’re in the acute or chronic phase, proper guidance can ensure that movement supports recovery and helps you avoid long-term complications. If you’re unsure about how to manage your joint pain, consulting a physiotherapist or healthcare professional can help you find the right balance.

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Studio On is a physiotherapy clinic based in Phnom Penh, focused on movement, recovery, and long-term care. Learn more about what we do and explore our main pages below.

Home gives an overview of Studio On and our approach to physiotherapy in BKK1.

The Studio offers a closer look at our space and how we work.

Services presents our physiotherapy treatments and exercise programs.

Conditions explains the main injuries, pain, and rehabilitation topics we treat every day.

Magazine shares articles and insights about movement science and recovery.

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Contact provides our address, hours, and phone number if you’d like to reach us.

References:

1. George SZ, Fritz JM, Silfies SP, Schneider MJ, Beneciuk JM, Lentz TA, Gilliam JR, Hendren S, Norman KS. Interventions for the Management of Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain: Revision 2021. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021 Nov;51(11):CPG1-CPG60. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2021.0304. PMID: 34719942; PMCID: PMC10508241.

   
   

2. Blanco-Giménez, P., Vicente-Mampel, J., Gargallo, P. et al. Clinical relevance of combined treatment with exercise in patients with chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep 14, 17042 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-68192-2.

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