Acute vs. Chronic Pain: Understanding the Difference
Pain is a funny thing. One minute you’re fine, the next you’re hobbling around after spraining your ankle or pulling a muscle. If you’re living with persistent pain that’s affecting your everyday activities, it might be time to get in touch with Axis Therapy & Performance in Toronto. But before you do, let’s get you up to speed on some of the important differences between acute and chronic pain, and how Axis can help you get lasting relief.
What is the difference between acute and chronic pain?
Acute Pain
Acute pain is generally a sudden, sharp pain. It occurs when something happens to the body that it needs you to know about. From gardening mishaps to simply slipping on the floor, these types of pain are intense and should be paid attention to, as there’s likely an underlying cause. Acute pain often eases off after a few days or weeks.
Common Causes of Acute Pain
- Sprains
- Strains
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Post-surgery pain
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can last for more than three months, so it’s one that you may need to manage in the long term. This type of pain can also be present all the time, or it might be intermittent. With chronic pain, the intensity can also vary. Chronic pain often has no identifiable cause, but can intensify with time. Conditions such as arthritis, back pain and nerve pain are typical examples of chronic pain.
Common Causes of Chronic Pain
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Nerve pain
How Can Axis Help?
Axis Therapy & Performance is a one-stop-shop for all things active lifestyle. We have a team of physiotherapists, chiropractors, massage therapists and performance trainers who all work collaboratively to give you a well-rounded, holistic approach to your health and movement.
Axis Helping you with Acute Pain
Axis physiotherapists are specially trained and experienced in getting you back on track with injury, and can help you:
- Assess your condition
- Help you with a custom treatment plan
- Guide you through your rehabilitation process
Axis Helping you with Chronic Pain
Axis physiotherapists also use a holistic, manual approach to managing your chronic pain. This can include:
- Manual therapy and hands-on approach to getting the most out of pain-free movement
- Exercise and training to build up strength and combat pain
- Learning how to manage and avoid chronic pain in the future
Why choose Axis?
Axis is so much more than just your local physio clinic. We’re your go-to support system for the long term. We want you to stay active and doing what you love, no matter what life or your body throws at you, which is why our two-pronged approach of sports massage therapy and physiotherapy offers you the best opportunity for lasting, effective pain relief. Learn how to fine-tune your movement from our expert care that’s driven by human connection.
Contact the nearest Axis clinic online or by phone to book a consultation. Find us in Scarborough, Riverdale, Downtown Toronto, Mimico, Mississauga or our new clinic in Markham.
