Chronic Pain Treatment
People living with chronic pain face daily struggles that may not be obvious to others. Suffering from pain is not a normal part of aging and should be acknowledged, diagnosed, and properly treated including strategies beyond medication alone. Evidence-based and alternative treatments may provide relief and improve quality of life. Social connection and psychological well-being are also important components that enable us to live each day to the fullest.
While over the counter and prescribed medication may have an important role in pain management, long-term use can create other health issues. Integrative medicine is not a substitute for medical care but may bring relief. Considering evidence-based complimentary therapies and discussing them with your physician may bring relief and improve daily quality of life. Each person’s body and pain experience are unique. Here are some ideas that may be helpful:
- Mindful Movement involves intentional focus on the body and breathing during low-intensity movement. A few examples include: Tai Chi, Stretches, Breathing Exercises, Yoga, Interpretive Dance, and Mindful Walking.
- Acupuncture as a traditional Chinese medicine involves the insertion of thin needles into skin at strategic locations on the body. Some uses of acupuncture include balancing energy and natural pain management.
- Guided Imagery may be a component of mindful movement but can also be completed in a still or relaxed position. It involves purposefully focusing on a positive image by visualizing within the mind.
- Massage Therapy is available using several different techniques. While a more relaxing therapeutic approach may work best for some, a deeper tissue or localized massage may be most beneficial to others.
- Spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustment may decrease pain and increase mobility for some, particularly those who have chronic back pain.
- Nutrition and Hydration play an important role in our overall health improving our daily functioning and the body’s ability to heal itself. A balanced diet incorporating primarily whole foods such as vegetables, fruit, protein, and starch with limited fats and sugar provide optimal nutrition and may aid in any needed weight loss which may also reduce pain for some people. Plenty of water helps flush toxins and staying hydrated helps reduce inflammation.
Living with chronic pain can be an isolating experience as suffering and mobility restrictions can cause us to miss out on attending events or feeling well enough to do the things we love. Taking the initiative to include a friend or loved one by adapting the location of activities, communicating via video chat or phone call, or visiting after an event to share conversation and pictures are gestures that can benefit all involved. When hosting an event or visiting with someone who suffers from chronic pain, minor adaptations can go a long way to create a more comfortable, enjoyable experience. Consider the use of medical devices and mobility aids or choose to take a sit down break or go to a quieter environment depending on what would best serve the individual. Being open and honest with friends, family, and medical professionals about how pain is affecting our daily lives is an important step in improving our health and wellbeing.
For more detailed information refer to this e-book from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Pain: Considering Complementary Approaches (eBook) | NCCIH