June is Men’s Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to discuss the importance of listening to your body and addressing symptoms early, especially when it comes to pain.
While this is sound advice for everyone regardless of gender, men are more likely to “power through” pain. In fact, a national survey by the CDC found that men are less likely than women to visit a doctor regularly and more likely to ignore ongoing symptoms.
Perhaps the biggest problem with ignoring pain is that it can delay diagnosis of underlying conditions like degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis. But early intervention is key, and it doesn’t just help reduce pain, it can preserve mobility, protect long-term function, and improve overall quality of life.
Common Pain Conditions in Men: What to Watch For
Lower Back Pain. Often linked to overuse, disc degeneration, or poor posture, this is one of the most common complaints we see in men across all age groups. If your back pain lasts longer than a few weeks or is interfering with work, sleep, or exercise, it’s time to seek help.
Joint Stiffness and Arthritis. Joint pain, especially in the knees, shoulders, or hips, may be early osteoarthritis. Men are more prone to develop joint damage due to years of physical labor, sports injuries, or excess weight. Early treatment can slow progression and reduce inflammation.
Sciatica or Leg Numbness. Tingling or burning sensations down the legs could be signs of nerve compression, often caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. These symptoms are more than annoying, they’re your body’s way of asking for help.
Neck and Shoulder Pain. Not just from “sleeping wrong,” neck and upper back pain may stem from cervical spine issues or muscle strain exacerbated by poor ergonomics and stress.
What You Can Do This Month (Or Any Month!)
Get Evaluated Early. If you’ve been living with pain for weeks or months, talk to a spine and pain specialist. Many conditions can be treated non-surgically with great results. Waiting too long often means a longer recovery.
Reconsider Your Movement Habits. Regular strength training, stretching, and mobility work can help prevent pain and improve spine health. A physical therapist or rehabilitation specialist can create a safe plan tailored to your needs.
Know Your Risk Factors. Smoking, high stress, excess weight, and old injuries can all increase the risk of chronic pain. Addressing these factors with lifestyle support or behavioral therapy is just as important as treating the pain itself.
Don’t Dismiss Emotional Health. Pain isn’t just physical. Many men silently struggle with anxiety, depression, or frustration as pain interferes with work, family, and hobbies. Mental health support, whether through a counselor, physician, or peer support group, can play a major role in healing.
Take Charge of Your Health
This Men’s Health Month, don’t ignore the warning signs your body may be sending. Back pain, joint stiffness, and nerve symptoms aren’t just part of “getting older," they’re often signals of treatable conditions that deserve real attention.
Whether you’ve been dealing with discomfort for weeks or just starting to notice changes, now is the time to take action. Start your journey with us by calling (844) 487-8399 or filling out our self-referral form.
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