Persistent aches and pains are not signs of weakness. They are the body’s way of telling us to take a moment and fix a problem. A quick internet search for articles about men’s health provides countless articles with risky tips on “when to walk if off and when to go to the doctor.”
Don’t just “walk it off”. Persistent pain is your body’s way of asking you to pay attention. Long-term damage that can lead to chronic conditions is often preventable with just a single visit to the doctor.
Ignoring the body’s responses to discomfort can be dangerous. Unfortunately, many individuals develop chronic conditions by simply ignoring discomfort and causing otherwise preventable long-term damage.
Men tend to seek treatment only when they are in direct distress or after a severe injury. They are also less likely than women to have regular health check-ups that can detect symptoms of potential underlying chronic conditions. There are many factors at play that lead men to avoid medical care, but one disparity identified includes cultural tendencies that instill negative self-care stereotypes and behaviors, such as “walking it off”.
Even superheroes get sidelined.
We all have to hit the sidelines at times. No one is invincible, and unrealistic expectations hurt your health. To put a perspective on some attitudes toward healthcare, a recent study found that 65% of male respondents reported avoiding the doctor for as long as possible.
One in 5 respondents of that same study admitted to withholding information from their physicians, specifically because they were not ready to deal with the potential diagnosis. The unfortunate effect of this thinking only worsens often easily detectable and highly-treatable conditions.
Being honest with your physicians leads to more effective treatment and better outcomes.
Speed up by slowing down.
The way to a speed up recovery often starts by slowing down. Instead of powering through pain, talking with a physician can actually improve your current condition and relieve discomfort in the long-term. A short amount of time spent on recovery may prevent long-term damage and chronic conditions later.
Healthcare routines keep you in the game.
In the United States, the current average life expectancy for women is 81 years and 77 years for men. One reason for this has also been linked to men’s tendency to avoid healthcare and ignore painful conditions. Adopting a healthier attitude toward self-care and habits, such as paying attention to discomfort, may be a way to stay in the game—and possibly live longer.
Healthcare Routine Tips
- Find a physician you trust and schedule annual check-ups.
- Visit your general practitioner or specialist for persistent aches, pains or conditions.
- Listen to your body. When in pain, take a break, schedule an appointment, or visit an Urgent Care Clinic.
Ortho for all means everyone.
The decisions we make about healthcare are personal. We know the best healthcare choices are made when we all feel respected and valued. This article contains gendered references such as “men, male, women, and female”; these terms are used with an intent of inclusivity and respect for everyone within our communities and each reader’s individuality and identity.
