When does Pain become an Injury?
I often get asked this question by patients, patient’s parents, and individuals who find out that I am a physical therapist.
Frank, acute and traumatic injuries are easy to define, diagnose, and manage, usually involving conditions like ligament tears, broken bones, acute tendon tears, nerve pain. It is important to rule out anything significant if you have an accident/injury.
So When does Pain Become an Injury?
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) occurs when we engage in a new activity or intensify the demands on an activity we are familiar with. DOMS typically peaks at 48 hours and is a natural and normal response to a new or increased level of physical activity.
If you experience pain beyond DOMS that disrupts your sleep, comes on during or after activities, interferes with your activities of daily living (ADLs), or prevents you from enjoying your life and the activities you participate in, seek medical advice from a physical therapist or your GP. Often, one will rest (stop the offending activity) in the hopes that the pain will disappear. Many times, it does go away, only to return when we resume the same activity.
If any of the above signs appear, you should consult your GP or a physiotherapist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management of your symptoms.
Physiotherapists are highly skilled allied health professionals, who are trained in evaluating and treating musculoskeletal issues. Physiotherapists also offer direct access, eliminating the need for a referral from a physician.
The physiotherapists at Pan Am are happy to help you! If you feel that your pain is outside the realm of expected, please reach out and book an assessment.
We have two locations: Poseidon (204.927.2660) and Pembina (204.925.1030) or you can book online at:
https://booking.medeohealth.com/panamrehab OR https://patient.medeohealth.com/booking/physiotherapy-pembina