Chronic pain affects at least three out of ten people in the United States. Chronic pain can affect people of all ages, from the elderly to the young. It is a serious health problem that costs a lot of money and time lost from work. If you suffer chronic pain, you need to look for effective pain management Piedmont strategies to ease your pain.

Here are tips for managing chronic pain:

Learn about your chronic pain condition

The more knowledge you have about your pain, the more prepared you are to manage it. Chronic pain is persistent pain that typically lasts longer than six months. It may still be present even after the injury or sickness that brought on this kind of pain has healed. The nervous system keeps sending pain signals for months or perhaps years.

Work with a medical professional experienced in chronic pain management

After you understand your condition better, you should look for medical professionals who can assist you in managing chronic pain. Since you will rely on their knowledge for healing and recovery, they must have prior experience managing chronic pain.

You can get help to manage your chronic pain from your primary care practitioner, a physiatrist, or a physical therapist. If you find a physiatrist or primary care doctor first, you won’t have to look for a physical therapist on your own. The physiatrist or primary care doctor will probably refer you to a physical therapist.

Keep moving

Even though getting enough rest is critical for treating chronic pain, being inactive for extended periods may be detrimental.

Exercising regularly is an excellent method for lowering one’s pain levels while at the same time improving one’s strength, function, and overall quality of life. While it may be challenging to begin, regular, progressive exercise can improve pain sensitivity and decrease stiffness. Also, it does not matter what kind of activity you do (i.e., walking may be just as effective for pain as weight lifting), you will still feel better afterward.

Pace yourself

Too much or too little activity might exacerbate discomfort. Begin lightly and increase speed and intensity as you increase your activity level. Regular breaks before the unbearable pain minimize aggravation and prevent flare-ups.

Most people often get mentally and physically burned out because they do too much when they are in a “good” mood.  Then, they have to take time off work, sometimes for days and sometimes for weeks, to heal because of the pain. Once they start to feel better, the pattern starts all over again, which may make them less active over time.

Pacing allows you to train at a comfortable level and use the time between sets to strengthen your consistency and endurance.

Lessen stress and practice relaxation techniques

Stress can cause the body to get stiff and tense, which can make pain worse. A good night’s sleep and relaxing techniques like meditation and deep breathing will help relax the body and ease stress and pain. You can use mobile apps to help you meditate. In addition, you can seek a professional’s help to relieve your stress.

Call United Physician Group to book your appointment for pain management.