Doesn’t “chronic degenerative changes” sound scary to you? Well, you’re not alone.
In all facets of life communication is paramount. This is especially true in terms of healthcare, as words can have a profound effect on patient outcomes. How many times have you seen a healthcare provider and left feeling confused with medical jargon and more worried than when you arrived? This is not uncommon.
Words have the ability to facilitate or be detrimental to your physical rehab program. As a patient, you come to us in a vulnerable and stressful state, as to be expected. It is up to us as clinicians to convey our message clearly, to come up with a treatment plan, and help you through the process, NOT to “fix” the anatomical problem you may present with. Research has shown that psychological factors are better predictors of pain and disability than whatever physical condition you have going on. This is why we should focus on the positives and build good coping mechanisms to help manage your condition.
Keeping this in mind, check out the chart below to see some common medical terms and what they REALLY mean.
