How to Talk to Your Doctor About Exercise and Joint Pain

Introduction

Joint pain can be frustrating and debilitating, especially when it interferes with your ability to stay active. Whether you're dealing with arthritis, a past injury, or unexplained discomfort, exercise often plays a key role in treatment and long-term joint health.

But how do you bring this up with your doctor? Many people feel unsure about how to start the conversation, what questions to ask, or what information to provide.

This blog post will walk you through how to effectively talk to your doctor about exercise and joint pain. We’ll cover preparing for the visit, communicating clearly, and developing a collaborative treatment plan that supports your goals and respects your limitations.

Why It’s Important to Discuss Joint Pain and Exercise

Joint pain can affect every aspect of your life—mobility, sleep, mood, and overall health. While rest may seem like a logical solution, appropriate exercise is often one of the best treatments. It can strengthen the muscles around joints, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness. However, not all exercises are created equal, especially when joints are involved.

Talking to your doctor is the first step in figuring out:

• What’s causing the pain

• Whether exercise is safe for your condition

• Which types of physical activity are most beneficial

• What to avoid to prevent further injury

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Before the Appointment: Preparation is Key

1. Keep a Symptom Journal

Document your joint pain for at least a week before your visit. Include:

• When the pain occurs (morning, evening, after activity)

• Which joints are affected

• Pain severity on a 1–10 scale

• What helps (rest, heat, stretching)

• What makes it worse (certain exercises, weather, movement)

This helps your doctor identify patterns and possible triggers.

2. Make a List of Current and Past Exercises

Be honest about your current activity level, and write down:

• What types of exercise you do (walking, yoga, weight training, etc.)

• How often and how long you exercise

• If any exercises trigger or relieve your joint pain

• Any programs or physical therapy you’ve tried in the past

Your doctor can’t advise you properly if they don’t know what you’re doing.

3. Know Your Goals

Do you want to:

• Return to a sport or hobby?

• Lose weight to ease joint strain?

• Build strength or flexibility?

• Prevent worsening of arthritis?

Being clear about your goals helps your doctor personalize your care plan.

During the Appointment: How to Talk About It

1. Be Honest and Specific

Don’t downplay or exaggerate your symptoms. Say:

• “I feel a deep ache in both knees after 20 minutes of walking.”

• “I’d like to get back to swimming, but my shoulder flares up.”

• “I avoid exercising because I’m afraid of making things worse.”

Doctors appreciate honesty—it helps them help you.

2. Ask the Right Questions

Here are some questions to ask your doctor about joint pain and exercise:

• “What’s causing my joint pain?”

• “Is exercise safe for me right now?”

• “What types of activity do you recommend or advise against?”

• “Should I see a physical therapist or specialist?”

• “Are there any red flags to watch out for during exercise?”

• “Can I get a referral for an exercise program or trainer?”

  
  

3. Discuss Any Barriers to Exercise

Be open if you’re struggling with:

• Time constraints

• Fear of injury

• Lack of motivation

• Not knowing where to start

Your doctor may have resources or referrals that can help.

4. Take Notes (or Bring Someone With You)

It’s easy to forget details from a medical visit. Take notes or ask a friend or family member to join you and help ask questions. You can also request a visit summary.

After the Appointment: Follow Through

1. Stick to the Plan

If your doctor recommends physical therapy, a certain type of exercise, or rest from specific movements, follow that plan closely. Consistency is key, especially with joint pain conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Monitor Your Progress

Keep tracking:

• Pain levels

• Changes in mobility

• How your joints feel before/after exercise

Share this with your doctor during follow-up visits.

3. Don’t Ignore New or Worsening Symptoms

If you notice swelling, severe pain, or loss of function, contact your provider right away. These could be signs that the exercise isn’t right for your condition or that the joint is inflamed or injured.

Common Joint Conditions and Exercise Tips

Arthritis

• Low-impact exercises (like swimming, biking, or walking) are usually best.

• Strengthening surrounding muscles helps support painful joints.

• Avoid high-impact activities (like running) if joints are inflamed.

Tendinitis

• Rest is often key at first, followed by gradual strengthening.

• Overuse can worsen symptoms—listen to your body.

• Eccentric training may help, but only under supervision.

Joint Instability (e.g., after injury)

• Focus on stability and proprioception exercises.

• Avoid explosive or sudden movements.

• Use braces or supports as needed, per your doctor’s advice.

Post-Surgical or Post-Injury Rehab

• Always follow your rehab protocol strictly.

• Ask about timelines for returning to activity.

• Don’t skip physical therapy—it's vital for long-term joint function.

  
  

When to Ask for a Referral

Sometimes, your primary care doctor may not have the specialized knowledge you need. Don’t hesitate to ask for a referral to:

• Orthopedic specialist

• Rheumatologist

• Physical therapist

• Sports medicine doctor

These professionals can provide more targeted care and exercise prescriptions tailored to your condition.

What If Your Doctor Dismisses Your Concerns?

Unfortunately, not all medical visits go smoothly. If your doctor:

• Minimizes your pain

• Discourages exercise without explanation

• Doesn’t listen to your goals

…you may want to seek a second opinion. Your health, mobility, and quality of life are worth advocating for.

Tools to Help the Conversation

Here are some helpful resources you can bring with you:

• A pain map or chart to indicate where you hurt

• Photos or videos of exercises you’re doing

• A printout of your symptom journal

• Questions written down in advance

  
  

Final Thoughts

Talking to your doctor about exercise and joint pain shouldn’t be intimidating.

Remember: you are your own best advocate. The goal is to work with your doctor as a partner in managing your pain and improving your mobility.

With preparation, clear communication, and realistic goals, you can leave your appointment with a plan that empowers you to stay active—safely and confidently.