If people needed a physio for every ache and pain they ever had then clinics around the world would have 10 year waiting lists! So how do you know whether the symptoms you’re experiencing is in fact an issue to seek treatment for? There are a couple of things that may help you to make a decision:

1. How much does the pain impact you being able to live the life you want to live?

If it is getting in the way of your quality of life, this is a good trigger to seek professional help

2. How long does your episode last for?

Many episodes of pain can last 2 weeks or less before resolving. If it is not resolving spontaneously there may be some barriers preventing your body from dealing with the loads you go through. This is when physio may help you with strategies to upgrade the way your body automatically moves.

Pain is a complex entity but ideally when you feel safe at a nervous system level it results in more comfortable movement. The majority of pains can be managed better with support than simply being left ‘to the elements’ so to speak.

3. What is the quality of your pain?

Often people can have muscle soreness after increasing their activity. This is expected and usually settles within days. Knowing this can help you to continue to increase your activity steadily in a safe manner without necessarily requiring a review.

If it’s pain that is new, or increasing in area, or the quality is fairly sharp, then these should be reviewed by a Health Care Professional.