Chronic pain is complex. If the pain lasts longer than 3 months or is beyond the usual healing time, it is considered chronic by holistic healthcare specialists. Chronic pain can affect every part of a person’s life- from sleep to mental health to emotional health to work life and social life.
It may develop due to a medical issue or after an injury and can take a person some time to find specific pain relief methods. There are multiple options, such as hot and cold therapy, yoga, acupuncture or drug treatments.
How Common Is Chronic Pain?
Nearly 8 million people in Canada live with chronic pain. Worldwide, every day, the amount of people living with chronic pain is increasing and it is one of the leading causes of disability.
Chronic pain leads to numerous physical and mental health conditions, including:
-Depression
-Sleep problems
-Social Isolation
-Overuse of medication
How Can I Manage Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain can be managed through techniques that help reduce or control the pain you are experiencing. It is referred to as pain management. There are quite a few ways to manage pain
1. Physical Techniques
Various physical methods can help relieve pain- physical therapy, hot and cold therapy, massage, and acupuncture.
2. Mind-Body Techniques
A few methods combine both psychology and the body and it can also help you manage chronic pain.
3. Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Psychological treatments for chronic pain include talking therapies, such as CBT.
4. Yoga
Yoga helps you relax, strengthen, and keep your body flexible through specific poses. It might not decrease your pain, but can help you cope. It also helps you be more in control of how the pain affects your everyday life.
5. Tai Chi
Gentle on the joints and muscles, tai chi exercise therapy involves fluid body movements that is combined with breathing and relaxation techniques.
6. Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques can help ease muscle tension, muscle spasms, aches, and pains. They also release the hormone endorphins, which are our body’s natural painkillers.
7. Drug Therapy
A wide range of medications are available that help relieve pain. Each type of drug works differently and may be suitable for different pains.
There are diverse ways to manage chronic pain and many are easily accessible and easy to use. These pain management therapies aim to reduce chronic pain or help improve a person’s coping strategies.
All pain management approaches are best performed with a holistic health therapist to ensure that a person can safely practice them.
Want to learn more about pain management approach? Check out our blogs related to pain management or find a provider who can help you address your questions about pain management.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog or in any linked material is not intended and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For holistic health advice and consultation, visit https://www.mywellself.ca/.
