As a seasoned physical therapist specializing in pain, I’ve observed countless individuals embark on the journey from a minor discomfort, or what I like to call a “tweak,” to the challenging realm of chronic pain. Beyond acute injuries like ankle sprains or broken bones, pain often has roots in three fundamental aspects: the fear of movement, muscular weakness, and the nervous system’s interpretation of safety. In this blog, we’ll explore the downward spiral of pain, and discover how YOU can take charge and pave the way to recovery.
🚶♂️The Downward Spiral of Pain:
Picture this – a seemingly simple action, like bending to pick up something light, becomes the catalyst for pain—the proverbial “straw that broke the camel’s back.” Chronic pain is often the result of a series of unaddressed issues, that are not always just physical issues, that create a downward spiral leading to a nervous system that is on high alert, resulting in fear of movement, injury and pain.
🤔 Your Body’s Cry for HELP
It’s curious to consider that pain is actually vital for survival. Individuals who are unable to feel pain typically have shorter lifespans. Your brain communicates using a distinct language, and pain is one of its primary methods of conveying messages. Picture it as your brain signaling you to pay attention – perhaps it’s indicating the need for a moment of rest, suggesting that your body requires more movement, better nourishment, improved sleep, or reduced stress. Ignoring this subtle signal can pave the way for chronic symptoms. While it’s tempting to attribute it solely to the natural aging process, the reality is far more complex.
The Biopsychosocial Approach
The biopsychosocial approach is like peeling back the layers of our pain experience, recognizing that it’s not just a straightforward physical issue. It’s a blend of biological, psychological, and social elements that shape how we perceive and deal with pain.
- When we talk about the biological aspect of pain, we’re focusing on the physical aspects of your body that could be contributing to your discomfort. This involves looking closely at your muscles, bones, joints, and other tissues to understand any structural issues or abnormalities that might be causing pain or weakness.
- Psychologically, we delve into the emotional aspects of pain, considering how thoughts, beliefs, and past experiences may influence your perception and response to discomfort. For example, stress, anxiety, depression, fear of movement, frustration and negative thought patterns can exacerbate pain sensations, while positive emotions can help alleviate them.
- When we discuss the social aspects of pain, we’re considering how various environmental and interpersonal factors influence an individual’s experience of discomfort. Social factors encompass elements such as relationships, support systems, cultural norms, socioeconomic status, and community dynamics. For example, the response of loved ones to our pain and the extent to which chronic pain shapes our identity are both significant aspects of this social dimension.
As you can see, chronic pain is a multifaceted phenomenon, often oversimplified in mainstream medical field. It’s disheartening that the default response in our healthcare system tends to prioritize pharmaceutical interventions and quick fixes over holistic understanding and long-term solutions.
While I believe there’s a time and place for such interventions, my journey as a physical therapist has reinforced the importance of addressing the root causes of pain comprehensively. It’s about more than just masking symptoms; it’s about empowering individuals to reclaim agency over their health and well-being.
Wishing you Health, Happiness, and Vitality;
Michelle Bjornberg, MS, PT
Body Balance Physical Therapy and Wellness
972-544-4558
