Why Some Pain Doesn’t Go Away
Many people expect musculoskeletal (MSK) pain to resolve within weeks.
But when pain lasts beyond 6–12 weeks, it often becomes:
- Chronic
- Less inflammatory
- More degenerative or mechanical in nature
This includes conditions like:
- Tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Chronic back pain
The “Treatment Plateau” Problem
Most people follow a similar path:
- Rest
- Painkillers
- Physiotherapy
- Alternative therapies (TCM, chiro, massage)
👉 Yet many experience:
- Temporary relief
- Recurring pain
- No long-term resolution
What Research Shows About Chronic MSK Conditions
Modern studies show that chronic MSK pain is often linked to:
- Failed healing response
- Reduced blood supply to tissues
- Collagen degeneration
📊 This explains why treatments that only reduce inflammation may not work long-term.
What To Do When Pain Persists
Instead of repeating the same treatments, consider:
1. Re-evaluating the Diagnosis
- Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) may be needed
2. Escalating Treatment Strategy
- Move from symptom control → tissue repair stimulation
Where Shockwave Therapy Fits In
Shockwave therapy is commonly used when:
- Pain persists beyond 3 months
- Conservative care has plateaued
- Patients want to avoid invasive procedures
👉 Learn more about
shockwave therapy for chronic pain
Comparing Your Options
Before deciding next steps, it’s important to understand:
- Injections
- PRP
- Surgery
- Non-invasive therapies
👉 See full comparison:
shockwave vs injections vs surgery
A Lower-Risk Way to Try the Next Step
For suitable individuals:
👉 Zestora Sponsored Shockwave Trial
This allows:
- Trying treatment early
- Minimizing financial risk
- Making informed decisions
Key Takeaway
If your pain is not improving, the issue may not be effort—it may be strategy.
FAQs
Q: When is pain considered chronic?
Typically after 6–12 weeks.
Q: Why do treatments stop working?
Because they do not address underlying tissue degeneration.
Q: What is the next step after physio fails?
Options include imaging, regenerative therapies, or shockwave therapy.