Most of us will unfortunately experience some degree of pain in our lives. If I
had one wish, it would be that nobody would suffer from the agony of chronic
pain. Indeed, many of us will in our lifetime, and still many of us will feel
lost and alone in a world that doesn’t understand this unexplainable
pain.
Although there are many types of chronic pain, it is often true
with any kind of chronic pain, that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary. A
combination of patient education, medications, rehabilitation, and psychosocial
counseling is generally the best approach.
are three basic tips for managing chronic pain. Each step is equally important
in managing the pain, through every aspect of our lives.
The First
process is to respect the pain. Because chronic pain requires many office
visits, it is important to find a physician who understands you, your pain, and
your condition. Patients often find themselves without adequate care, or having
their complaints dismissed by their doctors. The patient and the doctor must be
willing to educate themselves as much as possible. Little is known about what
causes chronic pain, because it often occurs in the absence of ongoing illness
or disease.
The Second stage is to recognize the psychosocial aspects of
pain. Chronic pain has the ability to control your life. Every sufferer should
be constantly taking steps to prevent this. Studies show that two thirds of
patients with chronic pain have coexisting symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Many patients get discouraged after countless doctor visits, and a myriad of
diagnostic tests, and become a victim of their pain. They fall into what is
called the sick role. The sick role can have positive benefits such as extra
attention, sick leave, and sympathy from others. The negative effects are
usually quite debilitating though, including isolation and feelings of
worthlessness.
Fortunately there are some things that you can do to
manage chronic pain and avoid the sick role.
• Stay Active – It is
important for everybody to stay active. Physical therapy focusing on
reconditioning, stretching, and pain reduction modalities (e.g. ice, heat,
ultrasound, etc.) can have a drastic effect on mood and a feeling of
accomplishment towards pain management.
• Focus on Others – Being active
in the community, staying in touch with friends and family, and volunteer
activities can help to keep your mind turned towards others and off of your
pain.
• Accept your Pain – Don’t deny or exaggerate your pain. If you
need help, don’t feel ashamed to ask for it. If you avoid doing things you can
do, make an effort to do those things.
• Stay Healthy – Getting adequate
sleep, eating healthy, and emitting alcohol, tobacco, and drug use from your
life can have amazing affects on your pain.
The Final step to treating
chronic pain involves different methods of attack. It is important that you know
the treatment options available to you. Be clear when speaking to your doctor,
and discuss your choices. Let them know if you are willing to try alternative
forms of therapy or treatment, such as massage, chiropractic, acupressure,
acupuncture, etc. Another important thing you will discuss is your options of
medication. There are many medications available such as neuropathic,
psychiatric, and pain medications.
It is always important to remember
that you are not alone. There is a world full of people suffering from chronic
pain, and there other people and doctors that understand what you are going
through. It is crucial that you continue to take steps toward a total recovery
and in finding long term pain management techniques that work for you.
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