Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek help from our clinics in Brighton, but here’s a vital message:
just because it hurts doesn’t mean your back is damaged.
This shift in perspective is crucial for recovery and could change the way you approach your pain.
Not All Pain Equals Injury
Pain is complex and involves both the body and the mind. When you feel pain, your body is sending a signal — but it doesn’t always mean there’s damage. For instance, low back pain may be caused by tight muscles, stress, sitting too much or even emotional factors. It doesn’t always mean permanent injury. In fact, temporary discomfort often comes from the body’s natural response to physical strains or pulls, not from any lasting harm. The good news is that discomfort doesn’t always mean long-term damage.
The Sunburn in the Shower Analogy: Pain Doesn’t Always Mean Harm
Think of pain like a sunburn. After a bad burn, even the warm water in a shower feels painful, but it doesn’t mean the burn is getting worse — it’s just your body’s heightened sensitivity. Similarly, after a back injury or strain, your nervous system may become more sensitive to movement or touch, making it feel like your injury is worsening when, in fact, it’s just your body reacting to the healing process. The discomfort you feel is often part of the recovery, not an indication that you’ve caused further harm.
This heightened sensitivity can happen during healing stages, and while it can be frustrating, it’s a normal part of the process. Think of your body’s nerves as being on high alert, reacting more strongly to sensations as your body works to recover. Understanding this can help you avoid the anxiety that often comes with pain and can help you take the right steps to heal.
Why You Shouldn’t Fear the Pain
It’s completely natural to worry when you’re experiencing pain, especially if it lingers. However, it’s important to realise that the more you fear the pain, the more it can intensify. Anxiety and fear can amplify your perception of pain, making it feel worse than it actually is. It can also lead to avoidance of movement, which can prolong discomfort.
By understanding that pain is often a signal of the body healing, not a sign of permanent damage, you can begin to release that fear. Pain does not automatically mean something is broken or permanently injured. Many people experience temporary discomfort during the recovery process, and with the right approach, it often resolves on its own.
At Sundial Clinic in Brighton, we focus on helping you understand your back pain with information and reassurance as well as carrying out the very best chiropractic and physio treatments. We help you understand that temporary discomfort doesn’t mean you’re doing irreversible damage. Our goal is to guide you through this process so you can get better fast.
How We Can Help
When dealing with low back pain, a combination of advice, manual therapy, and prescribed exercises can help reduce pain, sensitivity, and promote healing. Working with a chiropractor or physiotherapist will help you understand why you are experiencing pain and develop a personalised plan that can help manage your symptoms and guide your recovery.
Take Control of Your Back Health
Pain doesn’t always mean harm. With the right care, your back can heal and thrive. If you’re ready to take the next step toward relief, we’re here to help. Book in at Sundial Clinic today , and let’s get you back on the road to a pain-free life!