You Are in Control of Your Own Destiny (At least when it comes to pain!)

By Luc Mahler, Chiropractor

How often have you or a friend said, “My knees hurt because I’m getting old” or “My dad had back pain, so I guess I will too”? 

Too many people assume it's inevitable that aches, pains, or stiffness will come with age or physical activity. 

But here is the hard truth: you are in control of your musculoskeletal health in more ways than you might realize. 

It is time to reclaim ownership and control from whatever is holding you back. 

Understanding Musculoskeletal Health

Musculoskeletal health refers to the well-being of your body’s structure and movement. 

You know the boring body stuff like… muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. 

When these components work well together, they support mobility, strength, and  endurance — aka, they keep you doing all the amazing things you love.

When something isn't working well — whether it's muscle weakness, joint inflammation, or poor posture — it can lead to pain, discomfort, and limited function.

The good news is that much of this is within your power to manage and improve. 

We see it every day at The Movement Co. people taking back control of their health and lives.

The Importance of Movement

**Use it or lose it.** This phrase applies perfectly to your muscles, bones and joints.

Regular physical activity is key to maintaining and even improving the function of your muscles and joints. 

Pick your poison be it walking, swimming, yoga, or weightlifting. 

But… movement keeps your muscles strong, your joints flexible, and your bones healthy. 

Lack of movement, on the other hand, is the danger zone! 

It will lead to muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and a higher risk of injury. 

Sedentary lifestyles are one of the biggest contributors to musculoskeletal problems, so get off your butts and move! 

AND in a perfect world you incorporate both strength training and flexibility exercises into your routine to maintain balance and prevent issues. This is the longevity secret!

Posture and Ergonomics

Good posture isn’t just about looking confident; it’s essential for musculoskeletal health. 

Poor posture, especially when sitting for long periods, can lead to back and neck pain, as well as long-term spinal issues. All our desk jockeys can attest to this! 

The same thing goes to ergonomics—how you position your body during work or daily tasks.

Ensure that your workstation supports proper posture, with your computer screen at eye level, your chair providing lumbar support, and your feet flat on the floor. 

But the biggest secret to posture is… changing positions and regular movement. 

Get up as often as possible and change your posture no matter what position you are in. 

Stress Management and Musculoskeletal Health

Chronic stress will negatively affect your musculoskeletal health. 

Stress causes muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back, which never feels good and creates a cascading effect throughout your body. 

Find stress management techniques that work best for you, such as meditation, deep breathing, or regular exercise.

They can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation in chronic tension. When that happens, the body moves more like it should and then everyone is happy.

When to Seek Help

While you can control many aspects of your musculoskeletal health… sometimes you need help from a (professional) friend. 

If you experience chronic pain, injury, severe discomfort or you just don't know where to start, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Our team of physiotherapists, chiropractors and massage therapists are experts. 

They will identify your challenges, provide treatment plans tailored to your specific goals, and be your accountability buddy along the way.

Take Charge of Your Musculoskeletal Health

You have more control over your musculoskeletal health than you think, it is time to take that control back. 

Through regular movement, proper posture, and stress management, you can keep your muscles and bones strong and functional and that is a beautiful thing!

While occasional discomfort may be unavoidable (hello DOMS), these steps can help prevent serious issues and improve your overall quality of life.

No more excuses that deflect your ability to change. You can be the hero in your own story and we know it.