This is a well documented psychological and neurobiological phenomenon we regularly see in patients coming to see us.
Here is why a diagnosis brings immediate relief:
A diagnosis confirms the pain is real and gives a sense of validation
The unknown is terrifying; a named reason reduces fear
Pain is a brain output design to protect the body. When the brain is anxious about the cause of pain it often amplifies pain signals. Knowing the cause reduces anxiety. We often see change of movement habits in patients, (pain avoidance) which are often unhelpful to recovery and can give pain further up or down the body too
We will always discuss a diagnosis which will help to move from ‘feeling helpless’ to ‘taking action’. An action plan puts you on the road to recovery sometimes instantly mostly step by step