Persistent pain: why won’t it go away?
Being in pain is frustrating, especially when the pain lasts forever. If you suffer from persistent pain, you’re not alone. As a healthcare professional who has experienced injuries and painful episodes myself, I understand how discouraging it can be. “Why does my pain persist?” is a common question in clinic, and unfortunately, the answer isn’t always simple. Here are some common reasons why your pain won’t go away, and what you can do about it.
You’re afraid of making things worse, and you don’t move around enough
When pain appears, our first reflex is often to limit our movements for fear of making the situation worse. In many cases, however, it’s not a serious injury, but rather a tissue irritation. By stopping movement, you reinforce your body’s protective message, which can prolong the pain.
A healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor or physiotherapist, can assess your condition and guide you through a gradual return to activity. The important thing is to control your movements to avoid maintaining the pain cycle.
You do too much and don’t recover enough
Conversely, some people do too much too quickly. A good balance between activity and recovery is essential. Your body needs time to adapt to the effort you put into it. Ask yourself these questions:
- Am I getting enough sleep (7 to 9 hours a night)?
- Am I tired in the morning?
- Do I feel persistent fatigue during the day?
If you answer yes to these questions, your recovery may be inadequate. Adjusting your routine to include more rest can help reduce persistent pain.
You focus too much on the persistent pain and not enough on your progress.
Improvement doesn’t necessarily mean the immediate elimination of pain. Other indicators, such as improved range of motion or increased endurance, show that your body is making progress. Learn to evaluate your recovery in ways other than focusing solely on pain.
You lack patience
Some injuries take time to heal. For example, an intervertebral disc injury can take 12 to 18 months to recover from, while adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder can take up to three years. It’s essential to remain patient and follow your healthcare professional’s recommendations to avoid rushing things and risking a relapse.
You doubt your ability to heal
Research shows that people who remain optimistic experience less pain and functional disability than those who are more pessimistic. A positive frame of mind can make all the difference. Adopt this approach: accept that pain is present today, but remain confident in your progress.
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Dr Charles Bélanger
Chiropractor and owner
