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Pain Management: 3 Powerful Tools

3 Powerful Pain Management Tools

Arthritis, back and knee injuries, headaches, plantar fasciitis, cancer, fibromyalgia–numerous conditions exist that can cause significant pain and negatively impact a person’s daily routine, mood, and well-being. Here are 3 powerful tools to help manage pain and improve overall quality of life:

1. Relaxation

Finding ways to manage stress and reduce muscular tension is essential for effective pain management. Try meditation, walking near the ocean, listening to peaceful music, or planning in pleasant, quiet activities. The Massachusetts General Hospital Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine provides fantastic instruction to assist with relaxation. Learn more about their programs here.

2. Exercise

Low-impact exercise and stretching can help keep muscles strong and flexible. Consult with your physician about exercise recommendations and aim to find a type of physical activity that seems doable and convenient. Here are some ideas: participate in aqua aerobics at your local YMCA, walk outside or on a treadmill, take tai chi or qigong classes, or try an exercise video at home. Peggy Cappy offers DVDs teaching gentle yoga, including: Easy Yoga for Arthritis, Easy Yoga for Easing Pain, and many more. Click here.

3. Support

Getting extra support when living with pain can make it feel more manageable. The American Chronic Pain Association provides great information and resources. Check out their website here. Additionally, seeking the assistance of a psychologist can also prove extremely helpful when coping with the stress of chronic pain.

An Additional Excellent Resource: Dr. John Otis’s Managing Chronic Pain Workbook details numerous effective skills and strategies for improved pain management. Check it out here.