In this post we discuss why you should choose evidence over intuition to reduce aches and pains.
We understandably place a lot of value in what we feel is happening with our bodies.
In most cases, that sensation you don’t like is what motivates you to take action. Whether that’s a tight muscle, an aching back, or a sore knee.
Whilst what you feel has value of course, how accurate is it when trying to decide on the best course of action?
I would argue not very accurate at all.
The problem with relying on intuition to resolve pain
In Daniel Kahneman’s book Thinking, Fast and Slow, he theorises that we have two systems of thinking:
System 1: Fast, automatic, intuitive, and emotional. It operates effortlessly but is prone to biases and errors.
System 2: Slow, deliberate, logical, and effortful. Engaged for complex reasoning but lazy and easily fatigued.
If you’re a person looking for answers to your aches and pains, it’s not surprising that most of your thinking on this topic uses system 1.
You understandably want rid of that unpleasant sensation and fast. This can leave you prone to quick fixes and unproven remedies however.
Rehab professionals can make the same mistakes
Rehab professionals are just as susceptible to the same traps in thinking. Seeing patterns that don’t exist, for example, or being overconfident in their diagnosis.
Kahneman concludes that the only time intuition has any real value is when the person applying it is highly skilled in a particular area and has years of experience. And even then…
Summary
The next time you jump to a conclusion about an unpleasant sensation—or rush into a treatment because it feels right—pause. Engage System 2. Ask better questions. Seek evidence. Then act.