Most tissues in the body typically heal within six to twelve weeks after an injury. However, it’s not uncommon for people to experience significant pain that persists well beyond this period. The intensity of pain isn’t always directly related to the amount of physical damage. Sometimes, people can suffer from severe pain even when there’s little to no detectable damage. With this in mind, let’s explore some reasons why your pain might persist long after the tissues have healed.
Fear of Pain
Pain can have different meanings for different people. For some, it may interfere with work or be a sign of a more serious health issue. What you believe about your pain can influence how much you feel it. If you think that each time you feel pain, you are causing more damage, you will likely focus more on the pain. This heightened attention can make the nervous system amplify pain signals as a protective measure.
On the other hand, if you understand the source of your pain and know that while it might be uncomfortable, it isn’t causing further harm, the pain may feel less intense. This is where seeing a physiotherapist can be beneficial—they can help you understand your pain better, giving you more control over your recovery.
Changes in Movement Post-Injury
After the injury, you may have noticed that you started moving differently. It’s common to alter your movements immediately following an injury to avoid pain. However, over time, these new movement patterns can become ingrained and may lead to pain and discomfort on their own due to the uneven stress they place on your body. Correcting these adaptive movement patterns can significantly reduce pain post-injury. Since these changes can be subtle, you may not even realize they’ve occurred, and a physiotherapist can help you identify and return to your natural movement patterns.
Loss of Muscle Strength
While resting after an injury is important, too much inactivity can lead to muscle weakness. This can change your posture, make you tire more easily during daily activities, and increase your risk of further injury. Additionally, less movement can lead to increased focus on pain when it does occur. A physiotherapist can recommend the right types and amounts of exercise to help you rebuild strength after an injury.
Impact of Pain on Lifestyle
Persistent pain can disrupt sleep, work, and concentration, which can, in turn, affect your overall well-being and mental health. This can create a cycle of anxiety and depression that exacerbates the pain. If your pain is affecting your mood and quality of life, consulting a mental health professional can be an important part of your recovery process.