Learn the Difference between Acute vs Chronic Injuries
Injuries can be labeled in many different ways, however the terms we hear most commonly in the physical therapy office are acute vs chronic. What is the difference and how do I know which category I fall into? How does my treatment approach change depending on that label? Is one worse than the other? These are all fantastic questions and this blog will help shed some light on this topic so that you can be more in control of your body and overall health!
An “acute” injury is something that has happened recently. Generally, these injuries occur from traumatic events or a sudden onset of pain, such as a sprained ankle, broken bone or a fall. As a result, some common symptoms include swelling, bruising, sharp pain, decreased range of motion and weakness of the affected area. It is quite common to hear the term R.I.C.E. being used to help alleviate some of those symptoms. That stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation and is certainly an adequate means of reducing some of the initial inflammation and pain associated with an acute injury. Most importantly, it is a good idea to speak directly to your physical therapist or orthopedist, depending on the severity of the injury, to determine the best course of action for healing.
A “chronic” injury is generally something that has been aggravated repeatedly for a long period of time. Although some chronic injuries started off as an acute injury, these were not properly treated and led to compensation or progressive weakening of the injured area. Over time, this leads to a gradual breakdown of the structure, causing dull, achy pain, swelling and discomfort with specific movements. Typically, we find that clients will let these chronic injuries carry on for longer than necessary because they are not commonly as painful and they find ways to manage their day without causing that onset of pain. This compensatory pattern can potentially lead to further injury elsewhere in the body, which is what makes chronic injuries so difficult to recover from. In order to truly heal from a chronic injury, it is important to work with your physical therapist to identify the true root of the injury. Once a thorough evaluation is completed, a plan can be developed to reduce pain, improve range of motion, modify daily activities and begin the road to making a full recovery. Chronic injuries certainly take more time to heal, however the end-result is just as rewarding!
In general, it is much easier to treat injuries when they first occur. Chronic pain will commonly take much longer to recover from, as your body becomes accustomed to the compensation patterns that have been built. The treatment approach will certainly change, depending on how long you have been suffering from the initial injury. The best advice is to seek medical advice as soon as possible, following the onset of an injury. Do not let small injuries linger, as they undoubtedly become bigger and more damaging as time goes on.
Restore Physical Therapy has experience working with both acute and chronic injuries from all regions of the body. If you have pain that is stopping you from completing any of your favorite activities, take control of your life and come in for an evaluation today. We will help you establish the appropriate treatment plan, prescribe a home exercise plan and bring you back up to speed to accomplish all of your goals!
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