Chronic pain is an issue more and more people are dealing with. The causes of chronic pain can be many, known and unknown, but there is one thing all people suffering from chronic pain want and that is release! We know you’ve tried it all, from pills to natural remedies, to magic spells and nothing seemed to work, has it? That’s the chronic part in chronic pain! The pain is always there, sometimes less intense and other times debilitating. A while back we talked about some exercises for the hands that relieve joint pain and today we’ll give you some more tips on how to reduce chronic pain.
10. Quit Smoking
This bit of advice should be present on any list! If you’re still smoking, you bet it will add to your chronic pain! Why? Because it slows healing, it worsens circulations and it also increases back pain. So, if you need another reason to quit smoking, aside from cancer and a million other deadly diseases, chronic pain is it!
9. Keep a Journal
Studies have shown that keeping a pain journal can help you reduce chronic pain. How? Well, your doctor will better understand your chronic pain and they will manage to treat it more effectively. Put down your activities for each day, give marks to your pain and keep track of your meds.
8. Get Distracted
This is another great and effective way of reducing chronic pain. You’re not going to make it go away completely, but then again, that’s almost impossible when it comes to chronic pain. Forget about the pain, while engaging in activities that bring you pleasure; whether it is hanging out with your grandson, watching TV or going to the farmers’ market, do something that you like every single day.
7. Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol is bad for your body at any age. It stresses your heart, it dehydrates you and it makes your body jittery. Granted, it will help you get to sleep faster, but it promotes shallow sleep, which means that you won’t get the rest your body needs, which happens during REM sleep. Drink some chamomile and linden tea before bed!
6. Get Plenty of Rest
The more rested you are, the better you will deal with your pain. Skip parties if you know your chronic pain will drag you to hell and back. Don’t tire yourself out and try to get as much sleep as you can, at least 8 hours a day. The gist of it is to take care of yourself and of your body. It’s your tool that helps you sail through this world.
5. Understand Your Meds
It is very important to understand the pills you are taking, what they’re doing for you and also their side effects. When it comes to meds, there will always be side effects, even if they’re barely noticeable. A great way to reduce chronic pain is to monitor your body and share every relevant thing with your doctor.
4. Watch What You’re Eating
If you’re suffering from chronic pain, then you must start eating healthy, because it will make a huge difference. Quit junk food, fried food and any kind of processed foods. Stick to fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, beans and legumes. The only way your body can deal with pain and even heal it is if you provide it with all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients it needs to do so.
3. Raise Your Endorphin Level
Work out! Exercise! Do something to be active! Doing this will help raise your endorphin levels, which will help your pain diminish. Endorphins are the chemicals that make you and your brain feel good and they also block pain. Always consult your doctor before engaging in any physical activity.
2. Meditate
Taking a break from the world is something that so many people could benefit from these days. Did you know that you can do just that for a couple of minutes a day and get all the benefits it brings with it? Meditation will help you stop time in its tracks. It will help calm you down, tone down your pain and make you more centered. Learn about meditation and how it can help you!
1. Know that You’re Not Alone
A recent study revealed that one in five people in the U.S. is dealing with some type of chronic pain, so you are not alone. It is very important to know that there are other who are going through the same thing you are. Talk to your friends and family, go online and find other to share experiences and tips on how to reduce chronic pain.
What other ways to reduce chronic pain do you know of? Would you like to share any of them with us and our readers? Drop us a line in the comment section below, we love hearing from our readers.
