Persistent Pain

Pain is universal feeling it’s important to recognise that all pain, whether acute or chronic, is all produced by the brain.

Acute pain is a result of tissue damage and during this time it is important to let the pain settle while staying active and tissue will to heal on its own, however it is important to get a medical opinion from your health practitioner.

Persistent pain occurs even after the tissue has healed and you may suffer chronic pain. Once anything sinister has been ruled out by a physiotherapist and tissue will heal within 3-6months. Pain experienced is due to increased sensitivity of the brain and nerves, instead of further damage the body. In other words, it’s more complex.

So how can Physiotherapy help?

To find out what might be contributing to your pain, we need to take a step back and consider everything that can influence the brain and nerves and their sensitivity.

Factors that influence the brain and nerves are:

Medications - Initially medications allow you to get going when combined with active rehabilitation. Pain relief should slowly be tapered and ceased as movement and function becomes easier.

Surgery - When pain becomes persistent there is a shift from a structural changes to a more sensitised nervous system. Surgery is unlikely to resolve symptoms and may not be the best idea. Getting a second opinion from a physiotherapist or health professional is recommended.

Thoughts and Emotions - Chronic pain impacts life and can affect your mood and stress levels. Every thought and emotion you have is a brain impulse and these impulses can exhibit physical symptoms

Diet and Lifestyle - What goes in and out of our body can have an effect on our nervous system. It is important to review your alcohol consumption, smoking habits, sleep patterns and fitness level.

Broader perspective on pain - Take a step back and think about what was happening in your life when your pain began. Many people can make a meaningful connection between a difficult period in their lives and an increase in pain.

Physical Activity and Function - Getting moving without fear of re-injury or harm so that the brain does not protect against the pain is important to allow the return of normal movement.

It is important to remember that pain impulses come from the brain and by establishing a broader approach and a structured plan the brain can be re-trained to reduce the persistent pain.

Our Physiotherapists at WA health group have a strong understanding of pain and its behaviours and therefore use a holistic approach to treating persistent pain.

If you are suffering from pain come and make an appointment Canning Vale Physiotherapy clinic or Hilton Physiotherapy Clinic.