What type of pain do I have and what does it mean?

The main reason patients walk into our clinic is because of pain. They have experienced or is experiencing some form of pain which causes them discomfort. Pain can present itself very differently depending on the cause of it.

Why is knowing the type of pain you have important? Being able to determine what type of pain you are experiencing will be able to give you a good indicator of what conditions you may have. Each and every one of our body tissues are created distinctively for their specific purpose, and so they also respond to injury differently.

So, what are the main TYPES OF PAIN?

MUSCULAR PAIN

Usually described as: Achy, sore, tight, pulling sensation

Indication : Strain, sprain, muscle tear, trigger point, muscle overuse, muscle weakness

NERVE / RADIATING PAIN

Usually described as: Numbness, tingling, pins and needles, electric, weakness radiating sensation

Indication : Nerve irritation, nerve impingement (central or peripheral), nerve damage

ORGAN/ SOFT TISSUE PAIN

Usually described as: Sharp, stabbing, throbbing pain

Indication: Inflamed or infected organs (i.e. kidney, liver), fracture, muscle spasm, disc injury

Of course, it is important for you to not try to self-diagnose what conditions you might have based on this. However, it is a good indication that there may be damage to certain tissues in your body and that you should seek a professional physician to identify the cause of your pain.

Here at Healthworks we do a thorough history taking, physical assessments and diagnostic tests to determine the cause of pain for our patients. If you would like to know more about your pain and or what may be causing it, you can visit us by making an appointment at www.myhealthwork.com.my