Part 1: Opening a discussion on pain.

Pain is the most common reason for people to visit us. And although pain can influence movement and function, people are generally most interested in resolving their pain. The common thought is, 'when my pain goes away I will move better'.

An alternative view is, 'when I move better my pain will go away'.

Clinical practice guidelines for persistent back pain agree that moving in spite of pain is an important step toward recovery. What's more, the act of learning about pain is an effective strategy to improve function, and reduce pain. 

In the next few posts we will be exploring the idea of pain. What is it? Why do we hurt? What can we do to change it? These posts are intended to form an immediately practical resource for patients and clinicians seeking to better understand and work with pain. Please feel free to engage with the posts using the comments below, or email questions directly to dave@formphysiotherapy.com.au.

DAVID MOEN