Pain

Pain is complex. Particularly persistent pain.

Pain exists only in our own consciousness. It is a ‘best guess’ that protective action is required.

Our brain receives stimuli from our body and the world around us. So not only does it receive information from our body part, it also takes into account the ‘context’ from which it receives it. For example what we hear, see, feel, our thoughts/ emotions, and social factors.

If there is ‘credible evidence of danger’ this will increase the likelihood and intensity of pain.

If there is ‘credible evidence of safety’ this will decrease the likelihood and intensity of pain’.

So find your safety. What are the things that you can do/tell yourself that can help to decrease your pain?

• It may be moving and exercising, showing yourself that you don’t need to fear pain

• It may be as simple as receiving education about your injury. Knowing that pain doesn’t always mean tissue damage or harm

• Are you anxious and stressed? Is this adding to your overall pain experience

Overcoming persistent pain requires the individual to really dig deep within themselves to help reduce the threat and find safety!