In the last year as the rise in cost of living has pinched all our pockets, I’ve noticed a trend in patient’s history. It is quite common now for me to hear a patient say they have been living with pain for months and sometimes years before deciding to bite the bullet and see a professional. Typically the solution to these problems is relatively simple and effective, easing pain quickly. Hence, my surprise at my patients for living with their pain for so long. When I’ve asked why they’ve waited so long to get help, the answer is almost always, “money is a little tight at the moment, and I was hoping it would go away.”
This is completely valid logic, at least on the surface. Trying to stretch your budget to reach each area of your life is difficult and I understand that the subtle but persistent ache in your hip feels less important than paying for your rent or spending quality time with loved ones over a delicious meal. However, the more I’ve thought about this, the more I’m convinced that putting off seeking care for your niggles and injuries is a false economy. Let me explain..
Like I’ve said, there are almost always simple, straightforward solutions to your pain. That, or there is necessary rehab that rears best results when done in the initial phase of your recovery. Being proactive with your pain reduces the time you spend worrying about your pain and empowers you with the tools to self manage your symptoms. More often than not we want to promote your continued participation in your exercise routine, sport or daily activities. When you delay your visit, it’s common to begin to avoid things that hurt in an effort to help yourself. As you are more than already aware, stopping the things you love wears you down. Lack of regular exercise and participation in normal daily activities impacts your mental and physical wellbeing and your confidence. The combination of your pain with these other factors can result in a more complex and chronic clinical presentation. Now, a simple problem is not so simple and requires more time and costs to resolve.
Looking at your life from this holistic perspective, delaying medical attention for your pain will likely cost you a lot more. Definitely financially, but also in its impact on your participation in the best parts of your life, as well as the mental toll all of this can take on you. Getting in to see your physio sooner rather than later is absolutely your cheapest option.
So what now? Cost of living is a real struggle that we all feel. I understand the need to tighten your spending. And so here are some questions to help you decide whether to call your physio:
- Is it a new injury that you don’t have prior wisdom on how to manage?
- Is it bruised and swollen?
- Is it making it difficult for you to walk/ participate in your regular activities?
- Has this niggle lasted for longer than 1 week?
If you’re answering yes to these questions, it’s probably time to see your physio. A good physio should be able to work with you and your budget constraints. They will be able to give you as many tools to manage your pain and help your recovery independently at home, requiring a minimal amount of visits. We are here to empower you to help yourself and to get you back to your peak performance.
Hope this helps you make money conscious decisions about your pain.
Mo
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/article-abstract/2800006
