Men’s Health Week 2026
Men’s Health Week 2026: Helping Men Understand the Importance of Seeking Help for MSK Injuries.
It can often be true that some men struggle to ask for help, especially when it comes to their health. But, it is also true that health issues can become worse when men do not ask for help. Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries can be a common issue that men do not seek help for and just “push through”.
MSK injuries affect men of all demographics, and most men will experience an MSK injury in some form during their lives. However, despite their prevalence, many men delay seeking help. This approach can often lead to longer recovery times and an increased risk of chronic conditions, resulting in a lower quality of life.
Some common injuries that occur in men are:
Lower Back Pain - commonly seen in men with physically demanding jobs or those who take part in intense exercise.
Knee Pain - often linked to those taking part in sports or overtraining.
Shoulder Pain - often seen in men with previous sports injuries.
So, why do men not want to report their injuries?
Many men will not seek help due to practical barriers, such as long work hours or cost concerns. We often prioritise work or family life and, therefore, see an appointment at a physiotherapist or chiropractor as not urgent.
Past negative experiences with healthcare services can play a role too, making patients less likely to seek help when new issues arise.
Others will avoid help due to perceived conformity to traditional male norms, such as looking strong and avoiding appearing vulnerable.
All of these factors together can create delays in seeking support, even when early assessment could make recovery faster and more effective.
What can happen if an injury is ignored?
When an injury is ignored, it can begin to affect more than just the site of injury. This can be seen in cases where a person will “protect” the injury and avoid certain movements that exacerbate pain in the area. However, if this continues, it could result in a cycle of reduced movement or muscular atrophy in the area.
When your muscle does not heal correctly following injury, the rest of your body can begin to compensate for the weakened area. This can result in additional strain, overuse injuries or fractures. Tendons, the fibrous bands of connective tissue that connect muscle and bone, begin to work harder. The additional strain on this tissue can lead to inflammation, commonly known as tendonitis.
The body’s skeletal structure can also be affected if an injury is not rehabilitated. Long-term, this could result in a degree of misalignment, reducing range of motion in a joint or increasing the risk of stress fractures.
Should Men Seek Help?
MSK injuries are often more manageable with detailed diagnosis and structured rehabilitation plans. Early assessment can also make a big difference. It helps prevent pain from becoming long-term or more stubborn to treat, and it often means recovery is quicker and more straightforward. Physiotherapy and exercise-based rehabilitation are widely considered first-line, evidence-based treatments for most musculoskeletal pain and injuries. In many cases, starting is simpler than people expect, often involving a clear assessment, reassurance about what’s going on, and a tailored set of exercises or advice to get things moving in the right direction.
Seeking support sooner can improve quality of life in the long run. People often notice better sleep, improved mood, increased work productivity and a reduced risk of reinjury once help is sought.
If you have been living with any long-term pain or have been injured recently, do not hesitate to seek help. It is not a sign of weakness, it is an investment in your health.