The subjective experience of pain is multidimensional and is influenced by many personal factors. 

AKA there is a LOT of context and most importantly pain does not always indicate damage! So it can be a difficult treatment goal to chase. 

I do what I can to dissuade clients from focusing on pain and direct my treatment at the cause of their symptoms. By focusing on function and modifiable factors, quality of life typically improves and often along with pain. 

It’s important for my clients to understand this approach, particularly those with chronic pain or at risk for such. The idea is to reframe painful motions and activities so that clients can move forward with self efficacy.  

Studies have shown that treatment focused on pain education combined with manual therapy and exercise have better outcomes than traditional treatment that’s focused on solely treating pain. 

So if your entire rehab session consists of you lying on a bed lifeless - walk outta there. Run if you can.

(March 6 2021)