explain
pain
section
3
page
48
Acid and inflammation in the tissues
Acid in the tissues
The alarm systemworks for you all the time. Frequently it
makes simple calls for change. Take for example when you
don’t move for a while, or you are sitting on a rockwhich
creates pressure on your bottom. Movement is important to
keep your system flushed. A lack of movement or a physical
obstruction like sitting on a rock, leads to a build up of the
by-products of cell activity (including acid) in yourmuscles
and joints. Have a look at Mr Lee, now in his pyjamas after
a long day. He has been at the computer for too long. In
such an instance, the acid build-up inmuscles and other
soft tissuesmakes acid sensors open, which leads to
impulses running upMr Lee’s spinal cord and perhaps on
to his brain. If his brain concludes that hismuscles are in
danger (whichwould seem logical) and he should do
something (which also seems logical) then it will hurt. The
solution?Move. Just move. Any kind of movement. Varied
movements and some stretches are best.
In fact, the thought of ‘acid tissues’ shouldmake us all get
up andmove. This is cheap treatment – no drugs are
needed, nor fancy therapies.
Inflammation in the tissues
Anything with ‘-itis’ on the end refers to inflammation:
tonsillitis – inflammation of the tonsils; tendonitis –
inflammation of a tendon. Inflammation increases
sensitivity and that’s a great thing. Remember your last
sprained ankle, toothache, or appendicitis. Inflammation is
a primitive form of defence that is essential to the tissue
repair process. Think of the swelling, redness and pain after
injury as part of your own internal repair system and be
grateful and even proud of it. This really is fantastic –
imagine if cars could do this and repair themselves – a
swollen bumper bar for two
days and then it’s all over!
