Chronic pain can be a nerve-wracking diagnosis, but it isn't as rare as you might think. In fact, one in five Americans deals with chronic pain. That's some 50.2 million people. If you're struggling with chronic pain, the below tips and resources can help you manage your day-to-day life and ensure your comfort.
Educate Yourself About Your Condition
The more you know about chronic pain, the better you can take care of yourself.
● Ask your doctor the right questions about your condition, like what medications and lifestyle changes can help.
● Always get a second opinion from a reputable physician following a life-altering diagnosis like chronic pain.
● Join chronic pain support groups to connect with other people who share your diagnosis and can offer tips on how to cope, plus emotional support.
Tailor Your Lifestyle to Reduce Your Pain
Daily habits can make a big difference in improving or worsening your pain.
● Try exercises that are good for chronic pain, like walking, swimming, and stretching.
● Eat an anti-inflammatory diet, which is shown to help reduce chronic pain symptoms.
● Mental health issues like stress can also make chronic pain worse. Consult a mental health professional to get the assistance you need.
● Massage therapy is also shown to help people with chronic pain and can help you feel better day to day.
Adapt Your Home for Maximal Comfort
Follow these tips to make your surroundings as cozy and healthy as possible.
● If you struggle to fall asleep, invest in a good mattress to reduce back pain.
● Improve the air quality in your home by contacting your local HVAC specialist.
● Surround yourself with soothing colors to reduce stress at home, like blue and violet.
● Make renovations to transform your home into a cozy nest, like padded toilet seats, an electric heating pad, and a near-infrared red light therapy device.
Chronic pain doesn't have to interfere with your daily life. If you educate yourself about the condition and take care of yourself, you can still live a perfectly happy and fulfilling life. Consult the tips above for some helpful resources to get started.