Living with persistent body aches and pains can be challenging, affecting our quality of life and overall well-being. Seeking help from a physiotherapist is a crucial step towards understanding and managing these discomforts. In this blog post, we will explore what you can expect after your first physio assessment, shed light on the difference between good pain and bad pain, and highlight the importance of seeking further assistance when necessary.

The Process. The Good Pain. The Bad Pain.

1. The Initial Physio Assessment:

   During your first physio assessment, a trained professional will evaluate your condition, medical history, and specific areas of concern. They will perform various tests and movements to assess your range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Through this comprehensive evaluation, your physiotherapist will gain insight into the root cause of your body aches and pains, enabling them to create a tailored treatment plan to address your unique needs.

2. Post-Assessment Body Aches and Pains:

   It’s important to note that after your initial physio assessment, it is not uncommon to experience some level of discomfort. This can be attributed to the targeted assessment techniques and movements performed during the session. However, this discomfort is often short-lived and can be seen as “good pain.”

3. Understanding Good Pain:

   Good pain, often described as the discomfort experienced during therapeutic interventions, is generally a positive sign indicating progress and healing. This type of pain is typically short-term, localized, and proportional to the intensity of the intervention. It may manifest as muscle soreness, stiffness, or a temporary increase in symptoms.

4. Differentiating Bad Pain:

   On the other hand, bad pain is concerning and should not be ignored. It is essential to distinguish between good pain and bad pain to ensure your well-being. Bad pain is characterized by sharp, intense, and persistent discomfort that exceeds the expected level of post-assessment soreness. It may indicate an exacerbation of an underlying issue, a new injury, or improper technique during the assessment. If you experience bad pain, it’s important to communicate this to your physiotherapist immediately.

When to Seek Further Assistance

While some discomfort is expected after a physio assessment, it’s crucial to recognize the signs indicating the need for further help. 

Consider the following situations:

1. Worsening symptoms: If your pain intensifies or your range of motion decreases significantly after the assessment, it’s important to reach out to your physiotherapist for guidance.
2. Prolonged discomfort: If the initial discomfort persists for an extended period, beyond what was explained to you as normal post-assessment soreness, it’s advisable to consult your physiotherapist to reassess your condition.
3. New symptoms or unusual sensations: Should you experience new symptoms or sensations unrelated to your initial complaint, it is important to inform yourphysiotherapist to rule out any complications or related issues.

Remember, the goal of physiotherapy is to alleviate pain and improve your overall well-being. Open communication with your physiotherapist is crucial in ensuring your treatment plan is adjusted to your needs and any unexpected issues are addressed promptly.

Conclusion

After your first physio assessment, it’s normal to experience some discomfort. Understanding the difference between good pain and bad pain is essential for effectively managing your body aches and pains. While good pain indicates progress and healing, bad pain should never be ignored. Trust your instincts and seek further assistance if you experience worsening symptoms, prolonged discomfort, or new sensations. By working closely with your physiotherapist, you can embark on a journey towards improved mobility, reduced pain, and a better quality of life.