We experience pain because we have a specialised receptors. A receptor is part of the nerve system that responds to a change in the environment for the specific stimulation.
Nociceptors
Nociceptors respond to a tissue damage or to a stimuli that potentially might damage the tissue. These receptors are largerly present in the skin, bones, muscles, joints, blood vessels and internal organs. What’s interesting is that we won’t find nociceptors in our brain (you can stick a needle in the brain and you experience pain), lung or spinal cord tissue.
Pain receptors in our skin
Cutaneous (skin) nociceptors can be divided into mechanical and polymodal. Mechanical nociceptors respond to a strong mechanical stimulation – like pressure. Polymodal nociceptors also can respond to mechanical pressure but also respond to high heat, strong cooling or irritant chemichals.
Pain receptors in our muscles
Skeletal muscle nociceptors again can be divided into polymodal and mechanical. Mechanical respond to strong stretch and muscle contraction with ischaemia (restriction of blood flow). Polymodal nociceptors that are in skeletal muscles can be activated by the presence of bradykanins, serotonin and potassium ions. Impaired metabolism following a trauma, physical exertion and high levels of adrenaline may also activate these nociceptors.
Nociceptors in our joints
Joint receptors are located in the joint capsule, ligaments, bone, periosteum, articular fat pads and around blood vessels. But we won’t find nociceptors in the actual joint cartilage. Joint nociceptors can by divided functionally for those that respond to:
a) noxious pressure or extreme joint movement
b) strong pressure but not movement
c) “silent” nociceptors not responding to mechanical stimuli
In normal joint only a) is activated. When joint is inflamed all a, b and c receptors are activated.
Knowing all these factors are important when planning the right approach to the therapy and modality. We want to desensitize the receptors, improve the blood flow to the area that experienced ischeamia. Also what is very important is to improve patients mood and self confidence so his brain will alter the interpretation of pain signals.
Trigger point therapy, myofascial release, pinotherapy, gentle stretching and strength exercises are a great way to tackle both acute pain and chronic pain.
Mateusz “Matt” Ciesielski
Pain Relief Therapy
07784751656
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