Aches and Pains Aren’t “Just Aging” — Here’s What’s Really Causing Them

Neck and shoulder aches aren’t just from “getting older” — posture, stress, inflammation, and daily habits all play a role. With the right nutrition, movement, and targeted support, aches and pains can improve at any age.

Aches and pains are often dismissed as “just getting older,” but discomfort can affect people at every stage of life — from teens and athletes to busy parents and seniors. While occasional soreness is normal, persistent aches can signal inflammation, muscle imbalance, stress overload, nutrient deficiencies, or lifestyle factors that need attention.

At WellnessRX Pharmacy, we help patients move beyond temporary relief and understand the root causes of aches and pains — so they can feel better long term.

Common Myths About Aches and Pains

❌ Myth 1: “Pain is just part of aging”

While aging can increase wear and tear, chronic pain is not inevitable. Many age-related aches improve with strength training, proper nutrition, and inflammation support.

❌ Myth 2: “Rest is always best”

Short-term rest helps acute injuries, but long-term inactivity often worsens stiffness and discomfort.

❌ Myth 3: “If imaging looks normal, nothing is wrong”

Pain can be related to inflammation, nerve sensitivity, stress, or muscle imbalance — not always structural damage.

Common Reasons for Aches and Pains at Any Age

Children & Teens

• Growth spurts

• Sports overuse injuries

• Heavy backpacks

• Poor posture

Adults (20–50s)

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Repetitive strain (desk work, typing, driving)

• Stress-related muscle tension

• Hormonal shifts

• Poor sleep

Adults 50+

• Osteoarthritis

• Reduced muscle mass

• Bone density loss

• Chronic inflammation

• Medication side effects

Activities & Habits That Worsen Aches and Pains

• Prolonged sitting

• Poor ergonomics

• Inadequate recovery after exercise

• Dehydration

• High-sugar, ultra-processed diets

• Chronic stress

• Lack of strength training

• Smoking

Inflammation accumulates over time — and lifestyle choices play a major role.

How Nutrition Affects Aches and Pains

Inflammation is strongly influenced by diet.

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition:

• Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flax, walnuts)

• Leafy greens and colourful vegetables

• Berries and antioxidant-rich fruits

• Olive oil and healthy fats

• Adequate protein for tissue repair

Foods That May Worsen Pain:

• Refined sugars

• Deep-fried foods

• Trans fats

• Excess alcohol

Even mild dehydration can increase muscle cramping and joint stiffness.

Physical Activity: Movement as Medicine

While pain can discourage activity, appropriate movement often reduces discomfort.

Recommended:

• Gentle stretching daily

• Strength training 2–3 times weekly

• Low-impact cardio (walking, swimming, cycling)

• Mobility exercises

• Balance training

Building muscle reduces joint stress and improves resilience.

Stress, Sleep & Pain Sensitivity

Chronic stress increases cortisol and muscle tension, amplifying pain perception.

Poor sleep also lowers pain tolerance and increases inflammation.

Helpful strategies:

• Mindfulness and breathing exercises

• Regular sleep schedule

• Relaxation routines before bed

• Limiting evening screen exposure

Supplements That May Help Aches and Pains

When diet and movement aren’t enough, targeted supplements may support recovery:

• Curcumin (turmeric extract): anti-inflammatory support

• Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): reduces inflammatory markers

• Magnesium: muscle relaxation and nerve support

• Glucosamine & Chondroitin: joint cartilage support

• MSM: connective tissue support

• Collagen peptides: joint and tendon health

• Vitamin D: supports bone and muscle function

• Boswellia: anti-inflammatory herbal support

Supplement choice should be personalized based on symptoms and medications.

Medications That Can Contribute to Aches and Pains

Certain medications may cause or worsen discomfort:

• Statins (muscle aches)

• Aromatase inhibitors

• Some antidepressants

• Long-term corticosteroids

• Certain blood pressure medications

Your pharmacist can help assess whether medications may be contributing.

When Should You Seek Professional Support?

Consider evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening pain

• Pain that interferes with daily function

• Swelling, redness, or warmth in joints

• Night pain that disrupts sleep

• Sudden severe pain

Early assessment improves outcomes.

How WellnessRX Pharmacy Can Help

Our pharmacist and nutritionist team can:

✔️ Review medications for pain-related side effects

✔️ Recommend evidence-based supplements

✔️ Support anti-inflammatory nutrition plans

✔️ Provide joint and bone health guidance

✔️ Help identify lifestyle triggers

✔️ Collaborate with your healthcare provider

Pain management is not one-size-fits-all — personalized support matters.

Key Takeaway

Aches and pains are common — but they are not something you have to simply “live with.” Inflammation, posture, nutrition, stress, sleep, muscle strength, and medications all play a role. By addressing the root causes, many people experience meaningful relief and improved mobility at any age.

If aches and pains are affecting your quality of life, we’re here to help.