Chronic Pain Care & Management

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NOTE: Content is not a substitute for treatment or therapy, and as always, please consult with your healthcare provider.

If you have chronic pain it can be an emotional struggle as well as a physical one.

In my work with chronic pain patients, one treatment approach I use includes solution-focused interventions rooted in mindfulness. Instead of thinking ‘why me’, look at the situation from a ‘what now, how will I deal with this’ perspective.  A new mindset can make the situation less stressful, and if you are less anxious, your body will cope with the pain better.


Learn To Relax

Pain occurs to warn you that there is something wrong with your body. It is often in the muscles, but can occur in other parts of the body as well- such as the nerves. If your body is tense the pain could be worse, but learning to relax can aid in lessening the effects of it.

Calming your body down is the objective, and you have to find the best method of relaxing your muscles that suits you and helps to improve your well-being. Some people are lucky enough just to be able to sit back and it happens naturally, where others will have to do progressive muscle relaxing for it to work.

Rest

Some people with painful conditions feel exhausted throughout the day, but may find it difficult to rest due to the high demands of living in today’s society. However, rest is a key factor in proper recovery, so making sure that you listen to your body and try to incorporate rest breaks throughout your day will aid in rejuvenating your body, and could reduce some pain related symptoms.

Don’t Overdo It

If your chronic pain is a bit easier after a few days of rest and relaxation, don’t suddenly try to do everything you normally would. Overdoing it can delay your recovery so even if you are feeling better, take it easy for a while longer. Perhaps doing light tasks can suffice, but keep them simple or you could be back at square one.

Eat Foods That Are Anti-Inflammatory

There are some foods and herbs such as turmeric, oily fish, red fruits and vegetables, and leafy greens that have anti-inflammatory properties. Carrots, squash, watermelon, and peaches are all additions to your diet that could help.

Seek Help from a Medical Professional

There is help available if you’re experiencing in chronic pain. Your healthcare provider is a first step in treatment, or you can visit a specialist- like a chiropractor or physical therapist. Moreover, depending on the type of pain you’re experiencing, you could also try acupuncture or massage therapy.

Another alternative medical approach uses feedback modalities- such as Neurofeedback or Biofeedback. These non-invasive treatment therapies help teach you how to control your own physiology, and in many cases, can reduce pain symptoms in the back, neck, nerves and other areas.

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Beginner Yogi?? Here's Everything You Need To Know!

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Yoga is an ancient practice, originally coming from Indian culture. Yogis, the elders of the practice who taught it to others, practiced the sport as a peaceful balance of mindfulness and physical wellness. Now practiced around the world, yoga is an incredible way to stay fit, strong, and balanced while helping to keep your mind at ease. Yoga, also pairs incredibly well with meditation and mindfulness practices. 

If you’re looking to take up a yoga class, but you aren’t sure of what to expect, here are some tips to get you started on your yogi journey.

Keep an open mind

In movies and other forms of representation, yoga can be portrayed as “hippie” or too free-spirited. However, yoga centers around peace and mindfulness, and whoever you are, you will benefit from that. Whether you’re young or old, if you’re a business-minded careerist or a free-spirit artist, your mind and body will thank you for working on mindful exercise. 

Do Your Research

Depending on where you live and the array of options available, researching yoga classes in your area is essential before you attend. There are some yoga classes, run typically in gyms and workout centers, which center the practice around working out, incorporating some mindfulness in the exercise. Other places, such as Buddhist centers, focus centrally on the mindfulness aspect of yoga. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can find the best class for you and your needs.

Come Prepared

Yoga, believe it or not, is actually a hard workout. While gyms push your body in terms of weightlifting and cardiovascular fitness, yoga is a different form of exercise. Yoga practices the body’s ability to hold itself in different positions and improves flexibility.

Additionally, you want to come to your yoga class prepared. Bring water, and wear comfortable clothing you feel confident and physically able to move around in. Traditionally, most yoga classes required you to be barefoot and in close proximity to others. However, with the current COVID-19 pandemic, facilities have been taking social distancing and safe practicing precautions, but you should also ensure that your hygiene, health and general cleanliness are good before you attend. 

Your clothing should also be breathable workout gear, such as booty scrunch workout leggings combined with a comfortable fitting top. Keeping your lower back and core supported fitted leggings can help you find the yoga positions more easily. Plus, these leggings aren’t see-through, so you will be able to focus without the worry of your attire.

Ask Questions

All professional yoga teachers go through lengthy training before they begin teaching their practice. If you’re new to yoga, ask questions during and after the class! Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and find out more about this amazing sport. You pay to practice with a professional, so utilize their knowledge to help you learn. Yoga is an exercise that benefits your health long term, so enjoy it, and use every resource you can to help you improve!

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