Fear of moving
Are you worried that moving might make your symptoms worse? Perhaps you’re less likely to walk, bend down, exercise or lift things because you’re afraid of pain or physical injury. That’s understandable, especially if moving has caused you pain in the past. However, a fear of moving can cause your world to become increasingly smaller.
Exercising whilst experiencing symptoms requires confidence. You don’t simply have to push through the pain. However, avoiding exercise altogether often doesn’t help either. It’s about learning what is safe, what is achievable and how, step by step, you can regain confidence in your body.
What do you notice?
Fear of moving can affect what you do and what you no longer do.
You may, for example, notice that:
- if you avoid certain movements;
- you are worried that pain means damage;
- you walk, exercise or cycle less;
- you move more stiffly or more cautiously;
- you think carefully before you do anything;
- you are unsure about your body;
- cancels your activities;
- you lose your fitness;
- you lose confidence in your recovery.
