What is inflammation and why does it happen?
Essentially, inflammation is the body’s natural healing response to injury, infection, or irritation. When tissues are damaged or under threat, the immune system releases chemical signals that increase blood flow to the area, bringing white blood cells, nutrients, and other healing factors. This is why inflamed areas often appear red, warm, swollen, and painful—it is the body’s way of protecting and repairing itself.
However, there are two distinct types of inflammation you should recognise:
- Acute Inflammation: This is a short-term response that occurs quickly after an injury or infection, such as a sprained ankle or a cut. It is protective and usually resolves within a couple of weeks.
- Chronic Inflammation: This is a long-term, ongoing process where the immune system stays active even when there is no immediate threat. Over time, it can contribute to tissue damage and conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, tendinopathy, or degenerative joint problems.
What is the main cause of inflammation in the body?
The primary triggers for inflammation typically include:
- Acute injury: Damage from a strain, sprain, or impact triggers short-term inflammation to start the healing process.
- Infection: Bacteria or viruses activate the immune system to fight off illness.
- Overuse or repetitive strain: Repeated movement and poor mechanics can cause ongoing irritation and low-grade inflammation in muscles and joints.
- Autoimmune conditions: Diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis cause the immune system to attack healthy tissue.
- Lifestyle factors: Stress, poor diet, and inactivity can sustain low-level inflammation linked to chronic pain.
Recognising the signs and symptoms of inflammation
Inflammation can appear in different ways depending on whether it is acute or chronic. Recognising these signs can help you understand whether inflammation is contributing to your movement problems.
The five classic signs of acute inflammation are:
- Pain – usually localised to the irritated area.
- Redness – caused by increased blood flow to the tissues.
- Heat – the area becomes warmer due to increased circulation.
- Swelling – from fluid and immune cells moving into the tissue.
- Loss of function – such as difficulty moving the affected joint normally.
Chronic inflammation often develops more subtly. You might notice persistent body aches, morning stiffness, ongoing fatigue, or recurring minor injuries that take a long time to heal. While acute inflammation helps repair the body, chronic inflammation becomes a problem that leads to long-term pain if left unaddressed.
How our physiotherapists tackle inflammation
Is physiotherapy good for inflammation? The short answer is yes. It is one of the most effective ways to manage the mechanical and functional causes of swelling and pain. While medication can help control symptoms, physiotherapy targets the underlying issues that keep inflammation coming back—such as weakness, stiffness, or poor movement patterns.
At Recover Physio, we use a combination of evidence-based treatments to support long-term recovery. Our strategies include:
- Accurate Diagnosis: We perform a thorough assessment to understand the true cause of your inflammation, whether it is a weak muscle or a stiff joint.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations, and myofascial release, can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
- Targeted Exercise: Strengthening supporting muscles and correcting movement patterns help reduce strain on inflamed areas.
- Education and Self-Management: We empower you with guidance on activity modification and techniques like contrast therapy to manage inflammation day-to-day.
Your questions about inflammation answered
Can stress cause inflammation?
Yes, it can. When you are under stress, your body releases cortisol. If stress becomes long-term, your cortisol levels stay high, which can increase inflammation. This is why regular movement and mindfulness are vital for recovery.
What are the stages of inflammation?
Inflammation happens in three main stages:
- Inflammation phase (first few days): Blood flow increases to protect and clear damaged tissue.
- Proliferation phase (1–3 weeks): New tissue begins to form as healing accelerates.
- Remodelling phase (months): New tissue strengthens and adapts to restore normal function.
How can I test for inflammation in the body?
Your GP can check for systemic inflammation using blood tests like CRP or ESR. As physiotherapists, we identify local inflammation—signs like warmth, swelling, and tenderness—to tailor your treatment accurately.
Speak to a therapist
If you would like to discuss your condition to find out how we can help, you can speak to one of our friendly therapists. Just click below to request a callback from a member of our team.
Alternatively, if you would like to get going with your treatment straight away you can book an Initial Assessment online by clicking the link below.
