PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR PERSISTENT PAIN
We are pleased to offer specialized, trauma-informed physiotherapy for persistent pain. This holistic approach combines traditional physiotherapy techniques with complimentary methods that address unresolved trauma showing up as physical symptoms, by gently guiding the dysregulated nervous system into a calmer, more balanced state.
Why is this multifaceted approach more effective for Persistent Pain?
As we go through life, we sometimes have overwhelming experiences that send our nervous system into the fight, flight or freeze modes. These responses are a normal and necessary survival mechanism. Once the danger has passed and we return to safety, our nervous system is meant to return to a calm, balanced state again. But when that cannot happen, either because a feeling of safety is not achieved, or we don't get the opportunity to fully process what happened to us, or the stressors continue to occur, our nervous system remains in an activated state, ready for the next sign of danger. And while in this state, some of our other body systems cannot function optimally, such as the digestive and immune systems. Our heart rate and blood pressure stay elevated and our muscles are tense, stress hormones continue to circulate through our body, and we live in a hypervigilant state. Or conversely, we may live in a state of numbness, disconnected from our bodies and unable to fully feel our feelings or enjoy life. Both are reactions to trauma. All of this can have a detrimental effect on our mental and physical health over time. Muscle tension and pain, headaches and other painful conditions are common presentations when the nervous system has become dysfunctional. Often, our bodies provide information that our conscious minds do not have access to, and when we explore this in a safe and gentle manner, we can help bring the nervous system into a more regulated state so that the body can focus on healing. Combining nervous system regulation with physical therapy can help to address the pain from multiple angles, thereby optimizing results.
If you are experiencing any of the following, you may benefit from this specialized approach.
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Persistent pain
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Unexplained physical symptoms
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Physical symptoms that have not responded well to treatment in the past
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Fibromyalgia, migraines or other chronic pain conditions
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Body pain accompanied by stress, emotional distress or a history of trauma
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Sensitized nervous system or increased pain sensitivity
What can you expect from a session?
Our trauma-informed physiotherapist, who also has a background in counselling, will listen to you with a curious, non-judgmental and empathetic ear. You will receive a full physiotherapy assessment, and with your input, the physiotherapist will create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your goals. During sessions, you may be offered any combination of traditional physiotherapy interventions (manual therapy, exercise prescription, education, acupuncture and taping) and complementary techniques to help with nervous system regulation. The physiotherapist creates a safe environment for healing, and provides care through a trauma-informed lens.