Any time you injure yourself or experience pain and discomfort, if mild enough, the symptoms will resolve in a few days. That being said, you should know that just because you no longer feel symptoms it does not mean your injury has fully healed. This can often cause future issues and sometimes chronic pain from poor healing. Of course seeing your doctor is always recommended should there be serious injury.
THERE ARE MANY REASONS TO SEE OUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS. HERE ARE 5 REASONS WHY.
(Physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropody, occupational therapy)
1. PAIN REMAINS AFTER 3 TO 4 DAYS OF REST AND ICE
At the beginning of any ache or pain, it’s recommended to refrain from strenuous activity for a few days and spend 20 minutes several times a day icing the affected area. During “rest”, you should still move the affected area within pain free range to prevent excessive muscle and joint stiffness from setting in. If you have taken several days of rest and the pain persists, you should see one of our healthcare professionals (Physiotherapist, Massage Therapist, Occupational Therapist or Chiropodist).
2. REOCCURRING DULL PAIN
If the pain does not subside after several days of rest and ice and the symptoms repeatedly return there may be an underlying injury. Our therapists can provide a clinical assessment to determine the type and severity of injury.
3. WHEN MEDS DON’T HELP
If the pain does not subside after taking over the counter anti-inflammatory or pain medication you should get an assessment. Our physiotherapist can provide education on prevention and self directed exercises that will assist.
4. VISIBLE OR NOTICEABLE CHANGES TO AN INJURED AREA
If you notice the area you had previously injured appears to be really stiff or swollen after certain activities, you should see our physiotherapist or massage therapist as the area may be re-injured. An assessment can determine the reason for a reoccurring injury. You could be causing more damage to an un-healed area. Seeing our Physiotherapist or Massage Therapist could assist with preventing re-occurrence or chronic issues.
5. PRE AND POST SURGERY REHABILITATION
WHEN TO GET THERAPYReceiving therapy such as physiotherapy and massage therapy prior to certain surgical procedures affecting your muscles, joints and bones will assist in “preparing” the area for surgery. Preparing the area may include specific clinical techniques that would maintain strength, circulation and flexibility to an area and associated areas. This allows for a quicker and more successful healing period following your surgery thus allowing for Post Rehab to begin sooner. Post Rehab is of course beneficial because it allows your body to heal and strengthen appropriately and prevents improper biomechanics and function of the area affected through education for prevention and self-directed homecare.
