You stretch it. You ice it. You tell yourself it'll go away eventually. But weeks later, that same tightness or sharp pain is still hanging around — maybe even getting worse.
Whether you're a weekend warrior, a student athlete, or someone who just wants to work and play without pain, this situation is all too familiar. The question is: why does it keep coming back?
At Mitten Health & Performance in Elk Rapids, I see this every week — and the good news is, there's a better way forward.
Why Pain Lingers
Pain is your body’s way of asking for help. When it doesn’t go away, it usually means something deeper is going on.
Here are some of the most common reasons I see:
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Old injuries that didn’t heal completely
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Muscle imbalances or poor movement habits
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Overuse from work, sports, or repetitive activities
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Poor posture or joint restriction that leads to compensation
These problems build up slowly, and before long, your body starts shifting to "protect" itself — often creating new issues in the process.
When Rest and Ice Aren’t Enough
Rest can help in the short term, but it doesn’t correct the root cause. Neither does a quick massage or just popping ibuprofen. If the structure isn't moving properly — or if the nervous system isn’t firing efficiently — the pain will return.
That’s where chiropractic care comes in.
How Chiropractic Can Actually Help
As a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® (CCSP), I specialize in getting to the bottom of injuries — not just chasing symptoms. Whether it’s a shoulder that won’t loosen up, a nagging low back, or tension that won’t quit, we figure out why it’s happening and fix it from there.
At Mitten Health & Performance, your treatment is:
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Personalized to your goals and comfort level
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Active and hands-on — adjustments, soft tissue work, and movement therapy
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Designed to keep you doing what you love
My goal isn’t just to get you pain-free — it’s to help you move and live better long term.
What to Expect at a Visit
First visits are simple and straightforward:
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We talk about what’s going on and how it’s affecting you
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I assess movement, alignment, and function — no cookie-cutter care
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We make a plan that fits your goals
All visits are affordable, transparent, and easy to schedule.
Why Local Matters
In northern Michigan, we don’t slow down much. From farm work and yard projects to running, hiking, or boating — staying active is a way of life here. But those activities also demand a lot from your body.
That’s why having a provider who understands your lifestyle — and offers evidence-based, movement-focused care — can make all the difference.
The Bottom Line: Listen to Your Body
Pain doesn’t mean you're broken — but it is a signal that something’s off. And if you catch it early, it’s much easier to correct.
If you’re tired of putting off care or just want to finally get to the bottom of what’s going on, I’d love to help.
Located in Elk Rapids
Book online or call/text to schedule
Affordable pricing with no surprise fees
Alex Cesal DC, CCSP
Contact Me