In this episode, we explore how the words clinicians use to diagnose musculoskeletal pain can profoundly shape patient beliefs, behaviors, and clinical outcomes. Joined by Stephen Martin, PT, MSc, Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy at the University of Winchester and PhD researcher on diagnostic language, we unpack emerging evidence showing that diagnostic labels are not neutral—they can act as powerful psychological signals that influence fear, recovery expectations, and even decisions around imaging and surgery. We discuss why multiple labels are often used for the same condition and how this inconsistency creates confusion for both clinicians and patients. The conversation dives into the tension between specific and non-specific diagnoses—where specific labels may validate pain but increase fear and medicalization, while non-specific labels may support recovery but reduce patient satisfaction. A central theme is whether the label itself matters most, or the explanation that surrounds it, with growing evidence suggesting that how a diagnosis is communicated may be more impactful than the label alone. You’ll walk away with practical, evidence-informed insights on how to communicate diagnoses more effectively, reduce unintended harm, and support better outcomes in people living with pain.
Watch the Episode Here: How Diagnostic Labels Shape Pain
Listen to the Podcast Here: How Diagnostic Labels Shape Pain
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How Diagnostic Labels Shape Pain with Stephen Martin, PT, MSc
00:00 The Impact of Diagnostic Labels on Pain
03:23 Specific vs Non-Specific Diagnostic Labels
06:19 Over-Medicalization and Patient Fear
08:52 The Role of Explanations in Patient Understanding
11:36 Recovery Expectations and Patient Confidence
14:22 The Importance of Communication in Diagnosis
17:00 Medical Jargon and Patient Confusion
19:49 Themes from Qualitative Research
22:19 Reassurance and Its Role in Patient Care
25:19 Shifting Perspectives on Diagnostic Labels
27:59 Engaging Patients in Their Care
31:00 The Future of Pain Diagnosis
33:40 Cultural Shifts in Pain Understanding
36:30 The Need for Further Research
Resources
- Resources
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Stephen-Martin-37/research - Martin S, Smith M, Wilson DA, Zadro JR, Ferreira GE, O’Keeffe M. Non-specific diagnostic labels for musculoskeletal conditions foster positive views about prognosis and non-invasive management but require clear explanation: a systematic review. J Physiother. 2025;71(3):167-178. doi:10.1016/j.jphys.2025.06.011
- Martin S, Smith M, Wilson DA, Zadro JR, Ferreira GE, O’Keeffe M. The Effect of Diagnostic Labels on Treatment Preferences and Beliefs in People With Musculoskeletal Pain. A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2026;56(1):4-15. doi:10.2519/jospt.2025.13759
About Stephen Martin, PT, MSc
I am a Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy at the University of Winchester with a background in treating musculoskeletal pain. Alongside my teaching responsibilities, I am undertaking a PhD investigating the influence of diagnostic labels on MSK patient outcomes. I am very much interested in how language and communication can influence people’s beliefs and behaviour. Stephen Martin’s social media, www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-martin-40aa2a137