Why did my joint become hypersensitive?

Introduction

When joint pain outlasts the visible injury, many assume worsening damage. At Studio On (Phnom Penh & online), we know a different story: your nervous system may have become hypersensitive. Understanding this is the key to recovery.

The inflammatory-to-sensitised transition

After an acute injury the body releases inflammatory mediators—the so-called “inflammatory soup”—to trigger protection and healing. But when the joint tissues start healing and the inflammation subsides, the nerves around the area may stay in overdrive. They send danger signals even when the structure is no longer at risk. In short, the system has learned to keep the pain volume high.

From protection to nocebo: when movement becomes fearful

When pain persists, we often avoid movement. That avoidance means less input to the nerve system, which keeps it in high alert. Over time your brain and spinal cord learn to amplify minor sensations into full pain responses. This is called nociplastic pain: pain that is real but no longer reflects tissue damage.

How physiotherapy helps calm the system

Passive rest keeps the nervous system in standby mode. The antidote is gradual, controlled movement and targeted loading to “turn down” the sensitivity. At Studio On we deliver a structured pathway—whether in-clinic or via our online service—that retrains your body to move without fear and reset the volume of the pain system.

Your path forward

Assessment: we evaluate your joint history, movement, and pain patterns (in-clinic or remote).

• Education: you learn how the nervous system, not necessarily structural damage, may be driving your pain.

• Progressive loading: gentle movement → targeted exercise → functional return.

• Ongoing monitoring: same standards online or in-person, globally.

Why this dual model works

In our BKK1 studio in Phnom Penh you receive direct manual input and face-to-face guidance. Our online offering brings the exact same evidence-based system to clients anywhere in the world. Function, movement and recovery do not stop at borders.

Your next move

If your joint is still sensitive after “healing time” don’t assume you’re broken. Let Studio On guide you in-clinic or online to reduce hypersensitivity, reclaim movement and build confidence. Book your session today.

I provide structured and evidence-based online physiotherapy for patients worldwide, offering clinical assessment, diagnosis, and personalised rehabilitation.

I also receive patients in person at my physiotherapy clinic in Phnom Penh.

You can begin your online physiotherapy session through the dedicated platform:

https://www.studiohealthon.com/online-physiotherapy

More information on clinical standards and supporting evidence is available here:

https://www.studiohealthon.com/online-physiotherapy-clinical-evidence

Yannick Sarton, MSc Physiotherapist

International Online Physiotherapy & In-Clinic Care, Phnom Penh