When we experience pain, it’s natural to want to rest and avoid any activity that might exacerbate the pain. However, prolonged rest can actually do more harm than good, especially when it comes to managing chronic pain. The idea that rest is the best approach to pain management is a common misconception that can have serious consequences.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is a persistent type of pain that can last for months or even years. It is highly subjective which makes it difficult to measure and compare individuals who are experiencing chronic pain. In some instances, the pain might stem from an initial injury or infection, or there could be an ongoing cause. In some cases, people may experience chronic pain without any clear or identifiable reason.Â
The Problem with Prolonged Rest
Prolonged rest can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including:
- Deconditioning: When we don’t use our muscles, they can become weak and lose their function. This can make it even harder to recover from an injury and can lead to further pain and disability.
- Loss of range of motion: Prolonged rest can cause joints to become stiff and lose their range of motion, making it harder to move and perform daily activities1.
- Increased pain: Believe it or not, prolonged rest can actually increase pain levels. This is because the body is not being challenged to adapt to new demands, and the pain system can become sensitised2.
- Depression and anxiety: Prolonged rest can also lead to depression and anxiety, which can further exacerbate pain levels3.
The Benefits of Active Rest
So, what’s the alternative to prolonged rest? Active rest, also known as graded exposure, is an approach that involves gradually increasing activity levels while managing pain. This approach has been shown to be effective in managing chronic pain and promoting recovery.
- Improved function: Active rest can help improve function and mobility, making it easier to perform daily activities.
- Reduced pain: Active rest has been shown to reduce pain levels in people with chronic pain4.
- Increased confidence: Gradually increasing activity levels can help build confidence and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression5.
Pain education is essential for managing chronic pain and promoting recovery. At Recovery Partners we have experts with recognised medical degrees that can help you understand the complex physiology of pain. Through a better understanding of pain, you will be able to develop more effective strategies for pain management. Remember, rest is not always best – active rest is often the key to managing pain and promoting recovery.
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References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2019). Range of Motion.
- International Association for the Study of Pain. (2019). Pain Mechanisms.
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2019). Depression.
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2019). Pain Management.
- International Association for the Study of Pain. (2019). Pain and Emotion.
Disclaimer – these articles are provided to supply general safety information to people responsible for OHS in their organisation. They are general in nature and do not substitute for legal and/or professional advice. We always suggest that organisations obtain information specific to their needs. Additional information can be found at https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/Â