10/26/2022
Physiology of pain
Pain can be perceived differently from individual to individual. It can be a symptom of an underlying condition. Pain can be a subjective perception which becomes difficult to measure objectively. Pain cannot just tell you how damage a tissue can be. Pain can also vary from the environment or psychological state of a person. For example, depression can alter the sensation of pain.
Muscles, joints, skin, bones, organs detect and transmit information to the spinal cord to the brain which will process the information of pain perception.
Our goals as physical therapist are to help you reduce the sensation of pain and address the cause.
With new advances in technologies, we are able assist with multiple modalities approaches to help regain function and help you get back to the things you enjoy thus improving your quality of life.
Therapeutic modalities treat pain, speed recovery, to return you to full function and restore range of motion.
There are a variety of methods for pain management, which include the modalities in the video.
-Ultrasound-a mechanical pressure wave resonating therapeutic frequencies to increase healing process of soft tissues injuries. Aids in reducing tissue sensitivity and delivers heat into deep hard to reach muscles. It treats chronic tendon pain, muscles sprains, chronic issues such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid conditions.
-Electrical Stimulation- treats acute and chronic pain. Delivers current with therapeutic frequencies and allows current to pe*****te tissues which blocks pain signals form the affected area. Aids in better performance such as exercises or activities.
-Therapeutic Paraffin-a high heat capacity which absorbs and retains heat. It treats hand pain such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome. It increases blood flow, relax muscles, and decrease joint stiffness, muscles spasms and inflammation.
-Cervical traction- treats neck pain which can aid in reducing compression by gently pulling on the head from neck to separate the disc and joint surface to allow for space and reduce pressure.
