The Paradigm Shift in Dealing with Pain

In this post, we explore how movement plays a role in providing hope and healing.

Pain is a universal experience—whether emotional, psychological, or physical.

Physical pain can be temporary, but chronic pain, which lasts 12 weeks or more, can be devastating.

For millions, chronic pain becomes a constant companion, often leading to feelings of hopelessness.

The Cost of Chronic Pain

In 2015, The Institute of Medicine estimated that over 100 million Americans (3.4 million Australians) live with chronic pain, costing the U.S. up to $635 billion annually ($139 billion in AU) in healthcare expenses and lost productivity. Chronic pain often overlaps with depression, creating a public health crisis powered by reliance on opioids and other risky treatments.

According to the New York Times, 45,000 people in the U.S. died from opioid overdoses between October 2016 and September 2017—comparable to the AIDS crisis at its peak. With growing awareness of the dangers of overmedication, medical communities are now focusing on holistic, biopsychosocial methods to address pain without drugs.

Movement as a Path to Healing

Breaking the cycle of pain, depression, and addiction requires a new approach—one that emphasizes positive movement experiences. The Mayo Clinic reports that 70% of patients in its pain management program show depressive symptoms upon entry. However, after participating in the program, which emphasizes physiotherapy, 73% report reduced pain, and catastrophizing (the belief that pain will never improve) decreases by 70%.

Holistic Physio Osborne Park | Chronic Pain & Clinical Pilates – Design To Move