Why Isn't My Back or Shoulder Pain Getting Better?
If you've been struggling with persistent back or shoulder pain that just won’t go away, you’re not alone. Many people deal with ongoing discomfort despite seeking treatment. If your pain isn’t improving, there are several possible reasons why—and solutions to help you get back on track.
1. Incorrect Diagnosis or Treatment Approach
Not all pain originates from the same source. If your treatment isn’t targeting the root cause, progress may be slow. Conditions like tendon injuries, nerve impingements, or even referred pain from internal organs can mimic musculoskeletal pain. A thorough assessment by an evidence-based chiropractor can help determine the exact issue and guide an effective treatment plan.
2. Inconsistency in Treatment
Healing takes time, and consistency is key. If you’ve been skipping treatments, not following prescribed rehab exercises, or stopping care too soon, your body may not have had the chance to heal properly. A structured treatment plan, including chiropractic care, massage, and strengthening exercises, can significantly improve recovery time.
3. Poor Posture & Daily Habits
Many people unknowingly place excessive strain on their back and shoulders through poor posture. Whether it’s sitting at a desk all day, sleeping in an awkward position, or lifting incorrectly, these habits can contribute to ongoing pain. Assessing your ergonomics at work and home, adjusting your sleeping posture, and improving movement patterns can make a big difference.
4. Emotional & Mental Stress
Stress doesn’t just affect your mind—it impacts your body, too. Emotional tension can lead to increased muscle tightness, poor breathing patterns, and a lower pain tolerance. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, incorporating stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or counselling can help relieve muscle tension and improve pain management.
5. Weak or Imbalanced Muscles
A lack of strength and mobility in supporting muscles can prolong pain. Weak core muscles, poor shoulder stability, or imbalances between muscle groups can lead to ongoing strain and discomfort. Targeted rehabilitation exercises can help rebuild strength, improve movement patterns, and support long-term recovery.
6. Inflammation & Nutrition
Chronic inflammation can slow down healing and worsen pain. Diet plays a crucial role in recovery—excessive sugar, processed foods, and nutrient deficiencies (such as magnesium, vitamin D, or omega-3s) can contribute to prolonged discomfort. Consulting a clinical nutritionist can help optimize your diet for better tissue healing and pain relief.
7. Underlying Medical Conditions
If your pain has persisted despite various treatments, an underlying condition like arthritis, a herniated disc, or a rotator cuff tear may be present. In some cases, further investigation through imaging (X-ray, MRI) may be needed to pinpoint the problem and adjust treatment accordingly.
How Epoch Health Can Help
At Epoch Health, we take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to pain management. Our expert chiropractors provide thorough assessments to identify the root cause of your pain and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. We offer a combination of chiropractic care, massage therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and nutritional support to help you achieve long-term relief and prevent future injuries.
Don’t let pain hold you back—book an appointment with us today and take the next step toward lasting relief!