It’s normal to experience occasional aches and pains throughout life. Perhaps you slept awkwardly one night and woke up with a sore neck. Usually, this type of pain goes away after a little time or some simple home remedies. However, some aches and pains persist, sometimes without a clear cause. 

In circumstances like these, it’s important to try to identify the source of your aches and pains and treat it, so you are better able to enjoy your daily life.

Why do I feel stiff and achy all of the time?

One of the main reasons your joints or muscles feel stiff and achy all of the time is inflammation. Inflammation can build up from irritation from overexertion or a sedentary lifestyle that increases strain on your joints. Inflammation can also build up as a result of chronic conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Sprains
• Strains
• Gout 

What can I do to treat stiffness and achiness?

There are different ways to deal with stiffness and achiness. Some people can manage it on their own; others may need professional help. Regardless of whether you seek professional assistance or not, some tips to help you deal with stiffness and achiness include: 

• Improve your posture — Poor posture when standing, sitting or sleeping increases strain on your joints. Make sure to sit and stand with your back straight and your head held up with your ears square with your shoulders. Hunching forward or letting your head fall increases strain on the muscles in your back and neck, which puts more pressure on your spine and the nerves running through it.

When going to sleep, make sure you sleep on your back or side with a pillow that provides enough support to keep your spine in line. Sleeping on your stomach or with a pillow that is too big or too flat can put strain on your spine.

• Get enough sleep — Sleep helps your body reset and prepare for challenges you may face during your day.

• Improve your diet — Avoid fried foods, fatty foods, sugar and carbs from white grains. These types of foods help encourage the development of inflammation. Instead, eat more brightly colored fruits and vegetables, foods with healthy unsaturated fat, fresh fish and fresh poultry.

Visit Franklin Rehabilitation for help with your aches and pains

Are you tired of aches and pains causing you to miss out on your favorite activities? Our team at Franklin is here to help. We can examine your condition to identify the source of your pain and develop a treatment plan that can help.

We always personalize treatments to the needs of each patient. If you visit us for help, we’ll develop a treatment routine with your needs in mind that may include methods like:

• Therapeutic exercises
• Stretches
• Posture guidance
• Hands-on therapy and more

Are you ready to learn more about treating your aches and pains with physical therapy? You can begin physical therapy without the need for a doctor’s referral. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.