Simple Tips To Help Manage Chronic Pain
Living with some degree of pain is perfectly normal, especially as we get older. But some people experience more serious and persistent pain that seriously impacts how they navigate through daily life.
September is Pain Awareness Month in the US, making this the perfect time for the providers at Abraham Family Medicine to share helpful information on chronic pain, how it affects patients, and practical ways to manage it.
What Is Chronic Pain?
By definition, chronic pain describes a condition where pain symptoms last over three months. In some cases, it can continue for years—or even indefinitely—depending on the underlying condition. According to the CDC, over 20% of adults in the US have or are currently experiencing symptoms of chronic pain.
Beyond physical discomfort, chronic pain can also take a serious toll on a person’s mental and emotional well-being, often leading to frustration, fatigue, or depression. With this in mind, here are some simple but effective tips for managing chronic pain.
Physical Pain Management Tips
- Incorporate gentle exercise. Simple, everyday things like walking, swimming, or gardening can sometimes ease pain by blocking pain signals to the brain. Being active can also help by stretching stiff and tense muscles, ligaments, and joints.
- Consider physical therapy or occupational therapy. These therapies are designed to help people with pain improve their strength and mobility (and sometimes even improve pain symptoms) and allow them to perform daily activities in a way that doesn’t exacerbate pain symptoms.
- Try yoga or tai chi. This can help control breathing, while also strengthening important muscles without significant physical exertion.
Mental Pain Management Tips
- Practice relaxation techniques. Breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness can reduce anxiety, muscle tension, and stress—all of which may amplify pain.
- Maintain healthy sleep habits. Try sticking to regular bed times and wakeup times.
- Seek emotional support. Living with pain can feel isolating. Talking to a counselor, joining a support group, or connecting with others who understand chronic pain can ease frustration and provide valuable coping strategies.
Talk To Your Doctor About Pain Management!
There’s no need to suffer in silence. Our healthcare providers have many years of experience helping patients manage their pain and improve their quality of life. For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our family medicine healthcare providers, please contact Abraham Family Medicine. Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, and Lilburn.
