Where is your pain?
HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES
Headache and Migraine Headaches are a common cause of pain and discomfort, and most people will have headaches at some time in their lives. The term ‘headache’ covers any pain around the head, face or neck area. Some of the more common triggers for headache are lifestyle-related, such as poor diet, stress, muscle tension, and lack of exercise. Do not self-diagnose any serious diseases or conditions. Always consult a doctor if pain persists.
BACK PAIN
Back pain is very common and affects people of all ages. Most people experience lower back pain at some point in their life. Around 1 in 6 Australians have back pain each year. Back pain can have a significant impact on all aspects of life including daily activities, family life, work, recreation and social activities. Common causes of back pain include: repetitive or heavy lifting, sudden awkward movement, lack of physical activity, poor posture, being overweight, stress and muscle tension. Do not self-diagnose any serious diseases or conditions. Always consult a doctor if pain persists.
KNEE PAIN
Knee pain is a common problem that can occur suddenly or over a period of time. Your knee is a complex structure consisting of three bones—the lower part of the thighbone, the upper part of the shinbone, and the kneecap. Then, there are strong ligaments and tendons that hold these bones together, as well as cartilage beneath the kneecap and between the bones to cushion and stabilise the knee. Damage that affects any of these structures may lead to pain. Do not self-diagnose any serious diseases or conditions. Always consult a doctor if pain persists.
OSTEOARTHRITIS AND JOINT PAIN
Arthritis is a word that means ‘inflamed joint’. Affecting nearly 2.1 million Australians, osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage that protects and cushions the ends of the bones within joints is no longer efficiently repaired. As cartilage is gradually lost, the bone gradually loses its normal shape. The rough, uneven surfaces rub together cause pain. While the arthritis is usually manageable, it impacts on a patient’s quality of life. Do not self-diagnose any serious diseases or conditions. Always consult a doctor if pain persists.
SPRAINS & STRAINS
A sprain is a type of joint injury that typically involves tearing of the ligaments and capsule. A strain is an injury to muscles or tendons. Immediate treatment includes rest, icepacks, compression (bandaging) and elevation (RICE). Heat therapy should not be applied immediately after an injury. After all the swelling has eased (up to 72 hours) heat therapy can speed up recover as it increases circulation. Do not self-diagnose any serious diseases or conditions. Always consult a doctor if pain persists.
PAINFUL, STIFF, ACHING MUSCLES
Muscle aches and pains are common and often caused by overuse of ligaments, tendons, and soft tissue. Because there is muscle tissue in nearly all parts of the body, this type of pain can be felt practically anywhere. Often, people who experience muscle aches can easily pinpoint the cause. This is because most instances of myalgia result from too much stress, tension, or physical activity. Do not self-diagnose any serious diseases or conditions. Always consult a doctor if pain persists.
