9 Tips for Managing Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can affect everything from your daily routine to your mood and relationships. The good news is there are ways to manage it. Our East Tennessee pain specialists share nine things you shouldn’t do when managing chronic pain to make living with it a little bit easier.
What Shouldn’t I Do When Managing Chronic Pain?
Knowing what can exacerbate your condition is a huge part of managing chronic pain. Ignoring these factors is just as important as knowing what helps. Here are some common pitfalls that could make your pain worse and how to steer clear of them.
- Ignoring Your Pain
- Self-Diagnosing
- Leading an Inactive Lifestyle
- Poor Sleep Habits
- Skipping Appointments
- Overusing Pain Medications
- Ignoring Nutrition
- Catastrophizing Pain
- Failing to Set Realistic Goals
One of the biggest mistakes people make is ignoring their pain, hoping it’ll just disappear. Chronic pain rarely resolves on its own, and neglecting it will only make things worse.
Instead of waiting, consult a professional. Early intervention can help identify the root cause of your pain and lead to more effective treatment options later on.
Another common mistake is trying to self-diagnose. While it’s tempting to search online for answers, it could turn into inappropriate treatment options and potentially harmful consequences.
Over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief but often mask the underlying issue rather than address it. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or treatment plan.
It’s easy to fall into old habits when you’re dealing with chronic pain. Inactivity can weaken muscles, reduce flexibility, and noticeably worsen pain. Keeping up with gentle exercises like walking or swimming will help maintain your muscle strength and make you better overall.
If you’re unsure where to start, ask your doctor or physical therapist to create an exercise plan tailored to you.
A lack of restful sleep can amplify pain sensations and make daily tasks that much more difficult. To improve your quality of sleep, stick to a consistent sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice relaxation techniques before bedtime.
Regular check-ins allow your specialist to assess your pain management program and make any necessary adjustments. During this time, they might suggest new treatment options, medications, or therapies to help provide relief, which you likely won’t want to miss.
While pain medication can help, relying on them alone can lead to dependency. Instead, team up with your pain specialist to create a well-rounded pain management plan; this might include a referral to physical therapy, mental health support, lifestyle changes, and other medications if needed.
What you eat can also make a massive difference in managing chronic pain. Some foods tend to cause more inflammation, while a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help ease your symptoms. Minor changes to your meals can also impact how you feel overall.
Dwelling on your pain can trap you in a cycle of stress and negativity. This phenomenon, known as catastrophizing, can make your pain feel that much more intense. Instead of fixating on your discomfort, try to shift your focus to something else. Whether it’s diving into a good book or hanging out with loved ones, a little distraction can go a long way.
Coping with chronic pain is way more manageable when you set realistic goals. Expecting complete relief can lead to disappointment and frustration, so focus on small improvements instead. Celebrate the little wins and recognize the progress you’re making along the way.
Pain Management Services in East Tennessee
Are you ready to take charge of your chronic pain? Grace Point Pain Management is here to help. Our caring team offers personalized treatment options designed just for you. Don’t let pain run your life any longer — schedule an appointment today!