Pain: joints, back, and new aches

Pain has many causes—arthritis, nerve irritation, muscle strain, medication effects, and more. This page helps you get clear on what’s happening and what to do next.

Section: Common Issues

Quick safety check Pain is common, but it’s not always “normal.” If pain is severe, sudden, or comes with weakness, fever, or numbness, get checked promptly.

Step 1: Name the pain (this helps your clinician help you)

Where exactly? one spot vs multiple joints; one side vs both
What does it feel like? sharp, dull, burning, electric, throbbing
What triggers it? walking, stairs, standing, sitting, reaching, turning in bed
What helps? rest, heat, movement, changing position, time of day

Step 2: Track for 7 days (not forever)

Rate pain 0–10 once or twice per day.
Write down what you were doing when it flared.
Note morning stiffness (minutes?) and how quickly you “loosen up.”

Small but powerful Many joint issues respond better to gentle, consistent movement than to total rest.

Step 3: Safe first steps (while you schedule care)

Keep moving lightly: short walks, easy range-of-motion, frequent breaks.
Heat or cold: some people prefer heat for stiffness, cold for swelling.
Sleep + stress: poor sleep makes pain feel louder.
Medication caution: over‑the‑counter pain meds can interact with other meds or affect kidneys, blood pressure, or stomach. If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist or clinician first.

Red flags: don’t “push through” these

New weakness, numbness, or trouble walking
Fever, chills, unexplained weight loss
New bowel/bladder problems (especially with back pain)
Severe pain after a fall or injury
Hot, swollen joint with severe pain (especially if you feel ill)

What to ask at your appointment

“Is this more like arthritis, a nerve issue, or a soft‑tissue injury?”
“Would physical therapy help me move better and reduce pain?”
“Do I need imaging now, or should we try a treatment plan first?”
“What can I safely do for flare-ups?”

Ask your clinician (starter questions)

“What serious causes are we ruling out?”
“Could any of my medications or supplements contribute?”
“What is the simplest next step or test?”
“What can I safely do at home while we figure this out?”
“What symptoms should make me call you sooner or get urgent care?”

Related guides

This page is educational and not medical advice. If symptoms are severe or sudden, seek urgent care.