Why Back, Neck & Shoulder Pain Are So Common… and What Actually Helps
- Eleri Morris
- Dec 31, 2025
- 3 min read
As we move into 2026, many people are becoming more aware of how their body responds to stress, workload and pace of life.
Back, neck and shoulder pain are some of the most common reasons people book massage. And yet, many people also notice the same tension returning.
I often hear people say, “It helps at the time, but it doesn’t seem to last."
That experience can be frustrating, especially when you’re already trying to take care of yourself.
Why these areas are so affected
The back, neck and shoulders are highly responsive areas of the body. They play a role in posture, movement, breathing and how we respond to stress.
Long periods of sitting, repetitive movement, emotional load and mental pressure often show up here first. Rather than a single cause, discomfort is usually part of a pattern that builds gradually.
The body adapts, compensates and keeps going (often quietly) until it reaches a point where something needs attention.
Why focusing only on the sore spot doesn’t last
When massage focuses only on where pain is felt, it can bring welcome relief. But if the wider pattern isn’t explored, the body may return to familiar habits.
Pain isn’t always coming from where it’s felt. Tightness in one area can be linked to restriction, overload or fatigue somewhere else entirely.
This is why a more considered approach starts with understanding how your body is working as a whole, rather than chasing symptoms.
The role of consultation & recognising patterns
Before any hands-on work begins, I take time to understand what’s been happening in your body.
This includes understanding:
how and when symptoms started
what makes them better or worse
work, movement and lifestyle factors
areas of recurring tension or restriction
This detailed consultation helps me recognise patterns of holding and compensation, which then guide how the treatment is approached.
Supporting change through targeted hands on work
Based on what emerges during consultation, treatment may include:
Focused massage techniques
Myofascial release to support connective tissue and movement
Trigger point therapy to address localised areas of tension
Slower, responsive work that allows the body to soften rather than resist
The intention isn’t to force change, but to support the body in responding differently over time.
If this sounds familiar, the first step is a consultation-led session where we take time to understand your body’s patterns before any hands-on work begins.
Why one session is rarely a "fix"
One session can bring relief, insight and a sense of ease, but lasting change usually takes time.
When the body has been holding certain patterns for months or years, it often benefits from:
A small series of sessions to begin with
Space for the nervous system to settle
Gradual changes rather than sudden correction
Acknowledgment that progress isn’t linear, the same progress will not be seen after every session
Once things begin to shift, many people move into a more maintenance-based rhythm that supports ongoing comfort and mobility.
Where reflexology can support physical tension
Reflexology can be a valuable support alongside massage, particularly where tension is influenced by stress or fatigue.
By working through the feet, reflexology supports grounding and regulation, helping the body feel more settled overall. This can indirectly ease physical holding patterns, especially during busy or demanding periods.
Who this approach is particularly helpful for
Ongoing back, neck or shoulder tension
Pain that improves briefly but then returns
Desk-based or repetitive work
Stress-related holding in the body
Anyone looking for a more thoughtful, responsive approach
Book massage or reflexology in Chester
If you’re based in Chester and feel this describes your experience, you’re welcome to book a session or get in touch to discuss what might suit you best.
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