Making It Worse

Resting an injury might prevent it getting worse, however, it will not initiate or support the recovery process. Fear-avoidance starts to kick in as we avoid movements or positions that cause us pain or discomfort.

An injury, long term niggle or a sudden onset of pain can make you fearful about what the cause might be and whether it will ever get better.

When movement hurts, our body is amazing at adapting our lifestyle, movements and habits to avoid discomfort. We are built to avoid pain.

Having a life full of work, family, and leisure commitments can quickly put any niggles or injuries on the back burner and finding time to devote to recovery can be difficult.

The Impact of Worry

Our mind can be a dangerous place when it comes to fearing the worst and over-analysing every slight ache or pain consumes your head space.

The ability to search ‘Dr Google’ and the overwhelming number of responses makes it difficult to keep perspective and the process of self-diagnosis begins.

Often, we make one of two choices, to either ignore there is any problem in the hope it will resolve itself, or to assume the worst, panic and stand still in fear, worrying. If you find yourself avoid certain activities at home or in the gym, then it’s likely you are worrying about making it worse without knowing what to do to make it better.

Rest is Not the Answer

Rest is often reported to be the best form of recovery for any injury to the muscles, joints or ligaments, by comparison this suggests that moving or exercising must therefore be bad and might even make it worse.

GP’s all too often just hand out pain killers and advise a period of rest. The beginning of the recovery process is being given the right advice by the right person. Our patients appreciate the time taken to explain and reassure them and start to focus on tackling the real problem.

Rest might be appropriate for a short amount of time, typically the initial 24-72 hours if the injury is severe, or there is swelling, and the pain is overwhelming, but this is not an effective long-term strategy for recovery. There is plenty you could and should be doing from the very early stages of any injury. Research shows that the earlier you receive physiotherapy, the quicker your recovery is and reduces the risk of any issues, including re-injury you may have in the long term. We can help clarify what you should be doing and what you can be working on without causing yourself further damage or injury, and still enjoy doing the things you enjoy just will a little short-term modification.

Movement is medicine. The body must be given the opportunity to practice natural movements. If these movements prove uncomfortable, investigation as to why and what can be done to improve the situation should be sought.

Planning to Recover

We listen to your fears and understand your lifestyle and goals as this helps us to design a management plan that’s totally unique because it built around you. A positive mindset is a huge asset and the impact of hope, understanding and having a plan in place cannot be underestimated.

How We Solve the Problem

We will explain the findings of our assessment, what we would like you to achieve and how you can achieve it. There will be a full explanation of exercises, demonstration videos and guidance at your disposal. Working alongside your physiotherapist to hit your milestones and get you back to living your life without fear of injury.

Book Your Appointment Today

Book online or contact us using the details below to schedule an appointment at a location most convenient for you.

Call: 0121 517 1595

Email: info@westmidlandsphysio.co.uk

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