yourProblem
For most people, their problem is first realised when they experience pain.
Pain is a warning and like most warning signals it is important to determine what the real problem is.
If you know what is wrong and require help in managing the condition, then please follow the links below.
If, however you first need to establish a diagnosis then please contact your medical practice to book an appointment with the First Contact Physiotherapist.
aboutPain
Pain is an experience we often don't want to feel. It is however an important warning that is generated by our body's tissues when they are in danger and/ or damaged.
There are three ways to initiate a pain response:
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Mechanical stress and strain, such as getting kicked on your shin!
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Chemical changes, such as inflammation, infection and Gout
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Thermal changes, touching something really hot.
Whilst there are numerous ways in which we can mechanically and chemically affect our bodies, the initiation of a pain experience always starts off with one or more of the 3 ways.
aboutpain
sensitisation
Pain sensitisation is pain that has persisted beyond the time for normal tissue recovery. For example, if you cut your hand it hurts, but you wouldn't expect the pain to continue for several weeks.
In some instances this does occur and medical practitioners often use terminology such as 'pain sensitisation'.
It is like having a faulty house alarm; it rings out even though no one is breaking in!
aboutChronic Degenerative pain
Chronic Degenerative Pain is a pain experience that continues because the damage cannot be repaired.
Joint degenerative changes are typical examples. The joint does not have the ability to restore its normal function and therefore is a constant source of potential tissue irritation.
Self management is essential for this type of problem as best results will always be achieved with good strength, alignment and healthy chemistry. It is not a cure. It is best management.
aboutEmotional pain
Pain can also change in the way it affects us based on what we believe the problem is.
There are a whole range of emotions, expectations and beliefs that surround our own experience of pain. If we fear what the future will bring and catastrophise the outcome, then the overall experience will be much worse.
A positive but realistic outlook will always be of benefit.