When pain causes sleep loss, employment can be put in jeopardy because of diminished productivity. Depression, loss of appetite and a feeling of weakness are also associated with chronic pain.
According to The American Chronic Pain Association it’s important to realize that while pain may never go away, levels can be reduced to improve quality of life with a multidisciplinary pain program.
Guided Imagery
Guided Imagery has been scientifically proven to reduce pain levels. Simply identifying a calm peaceful place and using the imagination to transport the body to this place can, after time, offer respite from chronic pain. The prefrontal cortex and limbic system of the brain, used for emotional memories, also harbors chronic pain. The pain impulses are reduced when guided imagery build new nerve pathways in the brain.
Nutrition and Herbal Remedies
Pain causing inflammations and insomnia are often caused by diet. While diet supplement products should be approved by a doctor, the following diet changes can initiate relief.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed can reduce inflammation in the body
- Ginger can inhibit pain causing molecules
- Turmeric to reduce inflammation
- MSM, Methysulfionylmethane, is a nutrient that enhances the building of bone and cartilage
- Olive oil, fish, leafy vegetables, and whole grains are important ingredients of anti-inflammatory diets
Physical Manipulation
Massage and low impact movement of painful areas are helpful when pain is caused by muscle under or over-use. Scars, adhesions and Muscolosketal pain are also helped by manipulation.
- Massage relaxes knotted muscles and increase circulation, so chronic tension to the affected area will be released
- Chiropractic therapy physically moves joints into proper alignment to remove stress
Changes in Lifestyle
Depression, anxiety and fear can worsen chronic pain. Unless these factors are addressed, it is hard to treat chronic pain patients successfully.
Healthy habits help all types of chronic by strengthening the immune system. Regular sleep schedules allow restorative rest. A comfortable workspace will reduce stress and healthy social relationships can ease anxieties of life that exacerbate pain.
Communication between the chronic pain patient and the health care provider is very important. The best care can be given when all information is shared. Pain therapy treatments should show relief within a few weeks. If not, another option should be explored.
Alternative pain treatment claiming to cure any problems should raise a red flag. Chronic pain sufferers can be very vulnerable in their search for relief. This makes family support, or a friend serving as an advocate essential for the patient.
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