How to Know if It’s a Muscle, Joint, or Nerve Problem

How to Know if It’s a Muscle, Joint, or Nerve Problem

By Dr. Andrew Kakishita | Kinetic Chiropractic – Lehi, UT

When pain shows up, it can be confusing to figure out what is really going on. Is it your muscles, a joint, or your nerves causing the problem? Understanding the differences can help you get the right treatment and start feeling better faster.

Muscle Pain

Muscle pain usually feels achy, sore, or tight. It often comes after overuse, heavy activity, or poor movement patterns. Muscle pain can improve with rest, stretching, massage, or soft tissue therapies. Some common signs include:

• Tenderness when pressing on the area

• Pain that increases with specific movements

• Mild stiffness that eases with gentle movement

Joint Pain

Joint pain often feels deep, stiff, sharp, or “locked up.” It may be accompanied by swelling or a reduced range of motion. Joint discomfort can be caused by overuse, injury, or long periods of inactivity. Signs to watch for include:

• Stiffness when moving the joint

• Pain that worsens after activity or prolonged sitting

• Occasional clicking or popping

Nerve Pain

Nerve pain can feel sharp, burning, tingling, or like an electric shock. It may travel along a specific path, such as down the leg or arm. Nerve irritation can come from pressure, injury, or inflammation. Signs of nerve involvement include:

• Tingling, numbness, or weakness

• Pain that radiates from one area to another

• Pain that worsens in certain positions, like sitting or bending

How Chiropractic Care Helps

At Kinetic Chiropractic in Lehi, we look at the whole picture. Through a detailed exam, we identify whether your pain comes from muscles, joints, or nerves. Treatments may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue work, targeted exercises, or shockwave therapy when appropriate. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore movement, and help you get back to your normal activities.

Bottom Line

Understanding the source of your pain is the first step toward real relief. Whether it is muscle, joint, or nerve-related, proper evaluation and treatment can prevent problems from worsening and speed up recovery.