Is It General Joint Pain or Chronic Arthritis? How to Tell the Difference

When the experiences of getting older are by no means universal, it’s not always obvious what exactly is happening within your body. General joint pain and arthritis may present with similar symptoms, including swelling and limited mobility. Here, we’ll look at how to tell the difference between the two, and why a physical therapist in Las Cruces, NM may be able to help with both disorders.

The Main Differences Between Joint Pain and Arthritis

Joint pain and arthritis differ in a few key ways:

• Duration: This is the biggest difference between the two: joint pain is temporary while chronic arthritis may feel better certain days, but doesn’t go away over time.
• Cause: Joint pain’s cause can usually be traced back to a specific event, like an awkward fall. Chronic arthritis may seem to appear out of nowhere.
• Treatments: Joint pain is treated with temporary measures, like rest and ice. Arthritis can only be managed, usually with a combination of medications, surgeries, and injections.

Why Visit a Physical Therapist

A physical therapist can help patients holistically address pain, whether it’s from general joint damage or arthritis in Las Cruces, NM. When other practitioners may want to treat the problem with little more than a band-aid, a physical therapist looks for long-term solutions that can strengthen your joints and make them more resilient against the pain. While they may not be able to prevent more drastic solutions, such as surgeries or injections, they can ultimately give you more control over your body (and your overall health).

If you’re interested in what a physical therapist can do to help you live pain-free, contact Del Valle Physical Therapy & Hand Therapy today for more information about our services!