Highbar Physical therapy & Health blog

For a lot of men, pain is just part of life. A stiff back after a long workday. A sore shoulder that lingers from a weekend project. A knee that aches after a pickup game. It’s easy to brush it off, to “push through,” assume it will get better, or chalk it up to getting older.

But here’s the truth: pain isn’t weakness. It’s information.
It’s your body’s way of saying something needs attention, not avoidance.

At Highbar Physical Therapy, we see every day how powerful it can be when men stop ignoring their pain and start listening to it.

Why Men Push Through Pain

Many men are raised to believe that toughness means endurance, and that seeking help means giving in. But ignoring pain doesn’t make you strong; it keeps you from feeling and moving freely.

“We see so many men come in after months or years of pushing through pain,” says Dr. Mike Glassman, PT, DPT, OCS, a physical therapist and mentor at Highbar. “Once they realize physical therapy isn’t about limitation but restoration, it changes everything. They start to see strength as taking control of their health.”

What That Pain Might Really Mean

Pain often isn’t random — it’s a signal from your body that something is off. The good news? Most of these problems are highly treatable with the right care.

Low Back Pain

One of the most common reasons men seek physical therapy, low back pain is often caused by poor posture, weak core support, or tight hips and hamstrings. Stress and long hours sitting can also make it worse.
The fix: Targeted movement, strength training, and mobility work can reduce tension and retrain the body to move efficiently again.

Shoulder Pain

Whether from lifting weights, working overhead, or playing sports, shoulder pain can come from overuse or muscle imbalance.
The fix: Physical therapy focuses on improving shoulder stability and restoring range of motion before it turns into something more serious.

Knee Pain

Runners, cyclists, and weekend warriors... sound familiar? Knee pain is often related to strength or mobility issues in the hips and ankles.
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The fix: Strengthening the right muscles and improving movement mechanics can relieve pressure and prevent re-injury.

Pain Is Physical — But It’s Also Emotional

Chronic pain doesn’t just limit your movement; it affects sleep, mood, and focus. Many men carry that weight quietly.

“When pain becomes part of your identity, it takes a toll,” says Dr. Matt Salvatore, PT, DPT, CSCS, a clinician at Highbar. “Once we start addressing it — even small wins — we see confidence return. They start showing up differently at work, with family, everywhere.”

Listening to Pain Is a Sign of Strength

Seeking help isn’t giving up. It’s taking charge.
When you work with a physical therapist, you’re not just treating pain, you’re learning how to move better, prevent future injury, and get back to the things you love.

At Highbar, our clinicians are experts in physical therapy for men and understand the demands of work, family, and fitness. We’re here to help you feel better, move freely, and live fully, without pain holding you back.

Ready to Feel Strong Again?

Don’t wait for the pain to get worse.
Listen to what your body’s been trying to tell you, and take the first step toward relief.

Schedule an evaluation at Highbar Physical Therapy and discover how personalized care can help you get back to living, stronger than ever.

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