Pain is often misunderstood, especially in physiotherapy. One of the most common myths is that “pain always means harm”, and as a result, patients tend to avoid movement, fearing further damage. But this belief can hinder recovery rather than help it.
🔍 The Reality
Pain is a complex experience — it involves not just physical signals from the body but also emotional and psychological factors. While acute pain (like that from a fresh injury) might indicate harm, chronic pain often persists even when tissue healing is complete. In such cases, fear-avoidance behavior (avoiding movement due to fear of pain) can lead to more stiffness, muscle weakness, and functional decline.
In physiotherapy, graded exposure to movement, even if mildly painful, is essential. Controlled, guided movement helps retrain the nervous system, improve joint function, and reduce hypersensitivity.
✅ Fact Check
Modern pain science shows us that movement is medicine — even when there is some discomfort. Physiotherapists are trained to assess when pain is acceptable and when it’s a warning. Patients are encouraged to stay active within safe limits, rather than become immobilized by fear.
🔑 Key Takeaway
Instead of asking, “Is it painful?”, ask “Is this pain expected, tolerable, and improving with time?”. Educate yourself and your patients — pain doesn’t always mean you’re causing more damage.
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