10/23/2025
We often see X-rays showing “arthritis,” and it’s easy to assume that’s the reason for every ache or stiffness. But research has shown that many people with arthritic changes in their spine, hips, or knees have zero pain at all. In fact, some studies find that the severity of arthritis on imaging doesn’t always match how someone feels.
Pain is complex — it’s influenced by movement, inflammation, circulation, stress, and even how our nervous system interprets signals over time. Arthritis can be part of the picture, but it’s rarely the whole story.
That’s why two people with similar X-rays can have totally different experiences — one might struggle with daily pain, while the other feels fine and moves well.
The takeaway? Imaging findings don’t define your pain or your potential for improvement. Movement, strength, and healthy habits play a massive role in how your joints feel and function.
If you’ve been told “it’s just arthritis,” that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. You might be surprised what your body is still capable of when we address the full picture.
