Chronic pain involves the transition from acute pain into any pain that lasts for more than three months and persists beyond the body’s normal healing time. It can affect various parts of the body, such as the back, neck, shoulders, joints, or muscles, and can be a result of psychosocial and emotional factors. Some conditions where one might experience chronic pain include: fibromyalgia, arthritis, back pain and chronic headaches
Physiotherapy utilizes a non-invasive, hands-on approach to treating pain and improving mobility. It focuses on identifying the root cause of the pain and creating personalized treatment plans to address it. Physiotherapists are trained to assess your movement patterns, muscle strength, posture, and overall physical condition to determine the best way to relieve your pain. Some common treatments include soft tissue work, exercise, education on pain as well as the use of modalities like TENS, dry needling and shockwave therapy.
Physiotherapy doesn’t just address the physical symptoms of chronic pain-it also takes into account the emotional and psychological factors. Chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and isolation. Physiotherapists often collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as psychologists or occupational therapists, to develop a holistic treatment plan that focuses on both mental and physical well-being.
Staying active may seem counterintuitive when you’re in pain, but movement is key to managing chronic pain. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and cycling help maintain joint mobility, improve circulation, and release endorphins- your body’s natural pain relievers. The benefits of exercise include a reduction in stiffness, increased mood and energy, weight management and chronic disease management.
