Health + Fitness N E W S L E T T E R
LIVING WITH CHRONIC PAIN? G E T B A C K T O F E E L I N G N O RMA L W I T H P T
The above question is what prompts clients to seek a healthcare provider’s expertise in managing their pain symptoms. Pain is an interesting phenomenon. Treating the human body like a car when there is a pain related crisis is the wrong approach. If the brake of a car is dysfunctional, the mechanic can simply fix the brake and that fixes the problem and the car gets back to its full functional capacity. The human body is very complex and involves a collaboration of multiple systems that are codependent on one another. As it pertains to pain, clients must consider some important factors. These important factors are: onset and cause of the pain, the duration of the pain, and alleviating/exacerbation factors of the pain. The pain experience differs from person to person and can be magnified or reduced based on the clients activity level, stress levels, and if left untreated, can present more long-term issues over time. THE MIND, BODY, AND BRAIN CONNECTION The brain, mind, and body are always in constant communication. Our nervous system is the key channel to keeping communication between our peripheral system and our central nervous system. Our mind is comparable to the software of a computer, where our experiences, emotions, and beliefs are processed and recycled. Whereas the brain is the hardware here information is stored and commands are given to respond to and carry out functions. WHY ARE THERE DIFFERENCES IN OUR BODIES SENSORY PROCESSING SYSTEMS? Let us use Arthritis as an example. Arthritis is a process due to the natural aging process whereby our support structures in the joints and bones becomes less pliable and become thin thereby potentially affecting joint mobility and integrity. This is
usually assumed due to the natural process but confirmed via imaging studies. Furthermore, how to do we explain how and why two people of the same age with arthritis in their knee have two different lifestyles and pain perception? One experiences moderate to severe pain and is unable to engage in his or her leisurely activities, while the other continues to enjoy running and engaging in leisurely activities. In order to understand this, we must acknowledge the function and importance of the brain and having a thorough examination by an experienced Physical Therapist. According to the Pain Science Journal, “If our mind shapes our response to pain, then we can alter our input to help reformat our reaction to discomfort.” Notwithstanding this fact, it is very important to have a comprehensive examination of the root cause or causes of pain with a skilled PT in order to identify the issue, work on the impairments or deficits, and provide guidance for any modifications and or techniques to continue leading a pain free or pain reduced lifestyle. HOW CAN PT HELP IN ADDRESSING CHRONIC PAIN? Our skilled Physical Therapists with a cumulative experience of over 75 years are well versed and very thorough and experienced in their ability to recognize pain syndromes. During your examination we assess the multiple systems and their influence on your pain and pain perception. With a move to minimize opioid use and abuse, Physical Therapists are poised and experienced in pain inhibition techniques and relaxation techniques to improve the quality of life via improved functional mobility. We provide and suggest concrete strategies that emphasize autonomy such as deep breathing, use of modalities, and graduated return to movement. Lifestyle changes such as improving sleeping postures and increasing physical activity also go a long way towards balancing the nervous system.
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