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What is referred pain?
Referred pain is pain that originates in one part of the body that is also experienced in other areas. Physiotherapy is an excellent way of treating and reducing referred pain.
Above: Deep tissue massage of the gluteus maximus muscle by specialist therapistHow does referred pain happen?
Referred pain usually stems from the neck or back. There are a number of nerves that originate from the spine and supply different muscles in the body. If one or more of these nerves are damaged, this can cause referred pain in the corresponding area. Referred pain can be caused by a number of reasons including arthritis, trauma and disc prolapses.
Above: Trigger point massage used to address referred painWhat are the symptoms of referred pain?
You may experience pain in any of the areas that the affected nerves supply. Symptoms could also include pins and needles, numbness or weakness in those muscles. You may also find that an area becomes very sensitive to touch (hypersensitivity). Other symptoms include:
What should I do if I have referred pain?
It is important to establish where the pain is coming from. You may need to have additional investigations before physiotherapy can begin. This could include a scan or x-ray to provide you with an accurate diagnosis.
Above: Deep tissue massage of the gluteus maximus muscle by specialist therapistPhysiotherapy treatment for referred pain
There are a number of options that may be suitable to treat your referred pain. Your physiotherapist will devise you a programme that is specific to your needs and help you return to an active lifestyle. Physiotherapy may include:
What shouldn’t I do if I have referred pain?
If you think you may have referred pain, you should not ignore your symptoms or attempt to treat the condition yourself. This could delay your recovery and make it more difficult for you return to your normal activities of daily living.
Above: Strengthening exercises for the gluteus muscles supervised by a therapistCould there be any long-term effects of referred pain?
The length of rehabilitation of referred pain depends on the severity of the condition. You will be informed this when you are told the diagnosis.
To arrange a physiotherapy assessment call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 or book online.
