Accessing Health Care

Everyday aches and pains can often be expected as you get older and as your muscles get more tired and stiff from common activities. You might also be carrying a bit of added body weight that puts stress on your joints and muscles, so you're a bit more stiff and achy every day.

However, some aches and pains should be checked by doctors, as they could be signs of serious health issues. A doctor may also be able to address certain aches and pains with a few simple fixes so you don't need to tolerate that discomfort throughout your day. Note a few everyday aches and pains that you should have checked by your doctor and why this can be so important.

Jaw and neck pain

If you have persistent jaw and neck pain, you may be grinding your teeth at night or clenching your jaw throughout the day. These are both damaging to your teeth and can lead to severe headaches. 

A doctor or dentist can fit you with an appliance to keep you from grinding your teeth, and you might be fitted with a type of band you wear around your face or neck to keep your jaw supported. He or she may also show you everyday exercises that relax the muscles of the jaw and ensure they don't get overworked from being clenched, which can also alleviate that pain and discomfort.

Stomach pain

A diet rich in fatty foods or foods that might upset your stomach can be directly related to your tummy troubles. However, persistent stomach pain may have nothing to do with your last meal and should be checked by a doctor. You may have ulcers or a tendency to get constipated or may be dehydrated. These types of conditions can get worse and more painful over time, but they can also be treated with a change in your eating habits or with medication, so talk to your doctor about any persistent stomach troubles you might experience.

Leg pain

If you have persistent pain in your legs, it's good to visit a doctor and get checked for a pinched nerve or injuries to the back, as these can cause issues with the leg muscles. You may also have one leg that is longer than the other or may have fallen arches, both of which overwork those leg muscles. These problems can also be easily treated by a doctor so you then have improved balance and don't need to deal with this pain on a daily basis.