CHRONIC PAIN

Physiotherapy for Chronic Pain

ACP helps older people living with chronic pain improve movement, strength, physical function and participation in everyday activities.

Hands and supportive care

What is happening with chronic pain?

Pain that continues for months can involve changes in how the nervous system processes and responds to signals. The pain is real, but it does not always mean that ongoing tissue damage is occurring. Fear of movement and reduced activity can then add weakness and loss of confidence.

How physiotherapy helps with this

Physiotherapy gradually restores movement and activity at a tolerable level. Education, graded exercise, strength, functional practice and pacing can help reduce the effects of pain on movement and daily life.

What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is pain that continues for an extended period or repeatedly returns. It can affect movement, activity, sleep and participation.

What problems can people face?

People may experience reduced movement, reduced exercise, weakness, stiffness, poor sleep, fear of movement, reduced participation and greater dependence.

What can happen when it is not addressed?

People may gradually avoid activities because they are worried about increasing pain. Less activity can contribute to reduced strength and physical capacity.

How ACP can help

ACP focuses on helping the person move and function better through individualised exercise, strengthening, mobility, walking, functional activities, pacing and education.

When should physiotherapy be considered?

Consider physiotherapy when persistent pain is limiting mobility, exercise, transfers or participation in everyday life.

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Further information: Healthdirect Australia