When Should I See Someone For Aches And Pains?

Aches and pains are a part of life, especially as we go through our daily routines and activities.

Whether it's a stiff neck from sleeping awkwardly or soreness after lawn care, our bodies often experience discomfort. But how do you know when these aches and pains warrant professional attention, like visiting a physical therapist? Here's a guide to help you decide when it’s time to seek help.

1. Pain That Lasts Longer Than Expected

Minor aches after physical activity is not unusual. However, if your pain persists, it’s worth considering a visit to a physical therapist. Chronic pain, defined as discomfort lasting more than 12 weeks, is a clear signal your body might need professional care to heal properly.

2. Difficulty Moving or Limited Range of Motion

If you’re experiencing stiffness or find it hard to move joints like your shoulder, hip, or knee, a physical therapist can assess the issue and help improve your mobility. Limited range of motion often results from tight muscles, joint issues, or old injuries, and physical therapy can prevent the problem from worsening.

3. Pain After an Injury or Trauma

Whether it’s a fall, a sports injury, or a car accident, if you’ve experienced trauma and notice lingering pain, it’s important to see a professional. Even if the pain seems mild at first, untreated injuries can lead to more serious problems down the road. A physical therapist can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan to prevent long-term damage.

4. Pain That Disrupts Sleep or Daily Life

It’s one thing to feel discomfort after a workout or a long day of physical activity. It’s another when pain prevents you from sleeping or performing routine tasks. If your aches and pains are causing you to lose sleep, skip activities, or avoid exercise, a physical therapist can help you find relief and get back to living your life.

5. Numbness, Tingling, or Weakness

Numbness, tingling, or a feeling of weakness can indicate a nerve issue or other underlying condition that needs professional attention. If you’re experiencing these sensations alongside your pain, don’t ignore them. A physical therapist can help address the root cause and work with you to restore normal sensation and strength.

6. Recovery from Surgery or Medical Conditions

If you’ve recently undergone surgery or have a medical condition that affects your mobility, seeing a physical therapist can help accelerate your recovery. They’ll create a tailored rehabilitation plan to help you regain strength, flexibility, and function safely and effectively.

How Can a Physical Therapist Help?

Physical therapists are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat movement issues. They develop individualized treatment plans using exercises, manual therapy, and education to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent future injuries. With professional guidance, you’ll not only feel better but also learn how to manage and prevent future aches and pains.

When In Doubt, Seek Help

Have questions about your pain? Come to our FREE Injury Screen Clinics every Saturday from 9-11 AM. One of our physical therapists or athletic trainers will assess your pain/injury and give you advice about options for treatment or further evaluation.

This article is an educational resource written by Complete Game employees. Complete Game bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice, and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.