Why Rest Can Worsen Joint Pain

WHY RESTING TOO MUCH MAKES JOINT PAIN WORSE When older adults feel joint pain,

they often think rest is the answer. It makes sense – when something hurts, you want to stop

moving it. But here's the problem: joints work differently than muscles. While rest helps

tired muscles recover, it actually weakens your joints. Joints Need Movement to Stay Healthy.

Your joints need to move to stay strong and healthy. When you move, your body pumps

important nutrients into the cartilage. Cartilage is the cushiony material that protects your

bones where they meet. Without regular movement, cartilage starts

to dry out. It becomes stiff and breaks down more easily. At the same time,