Pain is an output from the brain as a result of a complex cascade of events. It is evolutionary very useful, as it is designed to help prevent further damage to the area.

In the early stages of an injury, also know as the acute phase, tissue damages results in inflammation within the area which activates nerves known as nociceptors. These send signals to the brain and it is here where, based on the brains interpretation of the stimuli and the person's emotions and feelings, the output of pain is created.

In the acute phase it is important that pain is addressed early to help reduce inflammation and encourage gradual range of motion exercises. Not only this, acute pain has to be addressed early and appropriately to prevent what is known as 'chronic pain'.

The most common definition of chronic pain is when the symptoms persist for greater than 3 months. By this time, any damage from the acute injury would have resolved yet the patient continues to experience pain. 

Unfortunately, it appears as though the incidence of people living with chronic pain in the UK is on the rise and is predicted to carry on rising. A systematic review by Fayaz et al (2016) highlighted that 1/3 to 1/2 of people in the UK suffer from chronic pain. That equates to approximately 28 million people.

In search for a solution people often turn to various medication and alternative treatments and medications in an attempt to alleviate their pain. A large body of evidence highlights that this is not the answer, and chronic pain has a far more complex mechanism behind it than simply addressing the biological aspects. As a trained physiotherapist, particularly at King's College London, one of the best universities in the world for teaching the most up to date evidence base, I have a sound understanding of the multifaceted components that can contribute to chronic pain. 

Together we can devise a graded and gradual return to activity, providing education and advise to aid with your understanding of your condition.