Module 3: Pain Education
Structural Pain Behaviors
Amplifies during movement
Tends to be consistent
Tends to improve with time
Diminishes after 6 months
Known injury or cause
Responds well to medical treatments like surgery, physical therapy, or rest
VS
Neuroplastic Pain Behaviors
Delayed pain after movement
Tends to be inconsistent in time and frequency
Multiple symptoms
Accompanied with fatigue and brain fog
Amplified with stress
Has not improved after 6 months
Known triggers (light, sound, weather, movement)
Began after a big life event
Improves when distracted or engaged in joyful activities
Types of Neuroplastic Symptoms:
Chronic Back Pain, Fibromyalgia, Migraines, Neck Pain, Face Pain, Muscle Tension, Neuropathy, Sciatica, Pelvic Pain, Foot drop/ pain, Lingering Pain after surgery, IBS, Chronic Fatigue, Long Haul Covid, Dizziness/ Vertigo, Chronic Lyme, Burning Mouth, Rashes/ Hives, Chronic Sinus, Tinnitus, Burning or Tingling Sensations, Cluster Headaches. Many more symptoms can show up as neuroplastic, consult your coach if you have questions about your sensations.
Is it possible to have both?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, many people have a combination of both neuroplastic and structural contributors to their pain. The good news is that the approach does not change. We can still explore the nervous system’s role in your symptoms and often see improvement across all types of pain signals.
It is important not to pick and choose which symptoms we think the tools will work for while dismissing others. Doing so can create unnecessary stress and confusion for the nervous system. Instead, we stay open, apply the practices consistently, and allow the process to unfold.
You might be surprised by what you discover and by the body’s incredible ability to adapt and heal when it feels safe and supported.
JOURNAL PROMPT
What have I noticed about how my pain behaves?