Is Pain with Age Inevitable? Why Getting Older Doesn’t Have to Hurt
Ageing does not mean pain is inevitable
Why Pain with Ageing is Not Inevitable
As we age, many of us accept pain and stiffness as inevitable. However, my experience with clients has consistently shown that this doesn't have to be the case. Understanding your body and the way it works can make a significant difference in how we approach and prevent these challenges.
Myth: Age Equals Pain
One of the most common misconceptions is that pain and decreased mobility are unavoidable consequences of ageing. Yet, we often see 70 year olds competing or performing in some form of ridiculous physical activity like gymnastics or hiking Everest – are they superhuman, or are we missing something? Our bodies do change over time, however, these changes don't have to lead to chronic discomfort. Maybe the issue isn’t age—it’s how we’ve been told to age.
Understanding Sarcopenia
A term you might hear in relation to ageing is sarcopenia, which refers to the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with age. This natural process can contribute to reduced mobility and increased likelihood of injury. However, the good news is that sarcopenia can be managed and even reversed with targeted exercise and lifestyle changes.
The Impact of Joint Health
Another concern often raised by clients is arthritis. Many have been diagnosed or suspect they have it due to joint pain and stiffness. While arthritis is a legitimate condition, it's important to note that muscle imbalances can exacerbate joint friction, leading to more discomfort. By addressing these imbalances through specific exercises and muscle balancing techniques, we can often alleviate pain significantly. Studies have shown that many people have clear signs of arthritis on scans -such as joint degeneration or osteoarthritis, yet experience no pain or symptoms at all, highlighting that pain isn't always a direct reflection of structural damage.
Muscle Balancing Work
I frequently work with clients who initially attribute their pain to arthritis. However, after some soft tissue work to balance the tension in their muscles, they often experience remarkable improvements. Performing targeted exercises on these joints help prevent pain recurring by helping to redistribute the load on joints, reducing friction and enhancing mobility. It's not uncommon for clients to report moving more easily and with less pain after just a few sessions.
Preventative Strategies
We live in a society, where resources are stretched. Getting appointments and referrals take time….how long are NHS referral wait lists at the moment? You might feel frustrated with wait times, but let me tell you the bigger issue with waiting for a referral - whilst you are waiting and doing nothing, your body does not stay in one state, it will decline. The movement becomes worse; you start to compensate with other areas of your body and before you know it, you are much worse.
This is why being pro active in your own self care is vital.
Engaging in regular physical activity, including strength training and flexibility exercises, can help maintain muscle mass, joint health, and overall mobility. Nutrition also plays a crucial role; a diet rich in nutrients that support joint and muscle health can significantly prevent age-related changes.
Most people will start to feel or see some form of improvement in their body and how they move after 6 weeks of regular exercise. As you get older, the change may be slower, but your body adapts to the demands you ask of it.
Why Waiting And Doing Nothing is More Damaging
If you are experiencing pain in your left hip, knee or shoulder, and you’re awaiting a referral which could take over 3 months…. that’s 3 months of muscle loss around that area - due to lack of use. The muscles waste, the joint becomes weaker, recovery becomes much harder and will definitely take longer.
Being proactive means starting to work and care for your body before pain shows up. If pain is already here, speak to alternative therapists, speak to personal trainers and exercise professionals, ask them if and how they can help you.
Move Better, Feel Stronger, Enjoy Life Without Unnecessary Pain
Ageing doesn't have to mean resigning ourselves to a life of pain and limitation. By understanding the factors that contribute to mobility issues and taking proactive steps, we can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle well into our later years. I'm committed to empowering you to move better, feel stronger, and enjoy life without unnecessary pain.
Ready to take charge of your mobility and well-being? Book your Discovery Call and discover how personalised muscle balancing techniques can transform your life.
Sabrina is a movement specialist based in Worcester Park, helping people overcome pain, move better, and enjoy active, fulfilling lives. With expertise in sports and remedial massage, personal training, and the Emmett Technique, she works with clients to relieve pain, improve mobility, and build strength. Treatments and training sessions take place in her private home treatment and training room. If you would like to discuss your needs, book a Discovery Call.