Most of us have at least one ache we’ve learned to live with. The stiff neck, the lower back pain, or the shoulder that hurts for no obvious reason. These pains are often dismissed as “normal”, but that doesn’t mean they’re untreatable.
Physiotherapy can make a real difference to the everyday aches we quietly put up with, often for years, assuming they’re just part of modern life; it isn’t just for elite athletes or post-surgery rehab. In reality, many common pains are caused by muscle imbalance, poor posture, or repetitive strain, all of which physiotherapy is designed to treat.
Here are five everyday aches physiotherapy can genuinely help with and when it’s worth seeking support.
1. Desk-related neck pain
Hours spent hunched over laptops and phones can strain the neck and upper back, leading to stiffness, headaches, and reduced mobility. Physiotherapy can help by identifying posture issues, strengthening weak muscles, and teaching simple exercises to relieve tension and prevent recurrence.
2. Lower back pain
One of the most common reasons people seek medical help, lower back pain is often caused by poor movement patterns, weak core muscles, or prolonged sitting. Physiotherapy focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and how you move day to day, rather than simply masking pain with medication.
3. Knee pain from walking or running
Knee pain doesn’t always originate in the knee. It can be linked to hip weakness, foot alignment, or training errors. A physiotherapist can assess your gait, correct muscle imbalances, and guide you on exercises or footwear changes to reduce strain.
4. Shoulder pain from sleeping badly
Waking up with shoulder pain is common, especially if you sleep on one side or use unsuitable pillows. Physiotherapy can improve shoulder mobility, address muscle tightness, and help adjust sleeping positions to avoid ongoing irritation.
5. Jaw pain (TMJ)
Jaw pain, clicking, or tension headaches are often linked to stress, teeth grinding, or poor posture. Many people don’t realise physiotherapists can treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems through gentle exercises, posture correction, and relaxation techniques.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
If pain is recurring, worsening, or interfering with daily life, even if it feels “minor”, it’s worth seeking advice. Physiotherapy works best when used early, before small problems become chronic ones.
The key message: pain isn’t something you just have to live with. Sometimes, it just needs the right kind of help.
