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Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

A systematic approach to decision-making in healthcare that integrates the best available research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences.

Therapeutic Exercise (TE)

Physical exercises that are prescribed to improve a patient's physical function and overall health.

Empathy in Patient Care

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which is crucial for effective treatment and patient satisfaction.

Pain Cycle

A cycle that includes pain, muscle guarding, and dysfunction, illustrating how pain can lead to further complications.

Acute Pain

Pain that is short-term, usually resulting from a specific injury, which is predictable and easily localized.

Chronic Pain

Pain that persists for longer than three months, often with diffuse or referred sensations and potentially psychological implications.

Nociceptors

Sensory receptors that respond to potentially damaging stimuli by sending signals to the brain that are perceived as pain.

Gate Control Theory

A theory that explains how the perception of pain is controlled by a 'gate' mechanism in the nervous system that can either allow or block pain signals.

Endogenous Opiates

Natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body, including enkephalins, endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine.

Referred Pain

Pain perceived at a location other than the site of the painful stimulus, often due to the shared pathways in the nervous system.

Dermatome

An area of skin that is mainly supplied by a single spinal nerve root.

Tissue Repair Phases

The stages of healing after an injury: inflammation, proliferative phase, and remodeling/maturation.

Hypalgia

Diminished sensitivity to pain.

Hyperalgesia

Increased sensitivity to pain.

Paresthesia

Abnormal sensation such as numbness or tingling.

Analgesia

Absence of pain in response to stimulation that would normally be painful.

Anesthesia

Loss of sensation.

Muscle Guarding

Involuntary muscle activity that occurs in response to pain or injury, leading to stiffness and dysfunction.

Mechanical Agents in Pain Management

Physical agents such as hot packs or cold packs that are used to manage pain and inflammation.

Scar Tissue

Fibrous tissue that replaces normal tissue after injury, which can affect healing and function.

Communication in Patient Care

The process of exchanging information between caregivers and patients to establish trust and foster a positive therapeutic relationship.

Pain Assessment Strategies

Methods used to evaluate and measure a patient's pain to assist in determining an appropriate treatment plan.