Good Habits for Decreasing Pain
This content was medically reviewed by Baher S. Yanni, MD, on January 10th, 2017.
In our last blog, we talked about some good habits for getting through days when you are in pain. We discussed eating right, using good posture, and advocating for yourself. Today, we have a few more things for you to integrate into your day.
Listen to music
Did you know that music has a direct impact on your limbic and nervous system? Studies have shown that music can provide significant pain relief. Though it won’t replace all treatment, it is a great idea to get music on your side.
Put a pillow under your knees when you sleep
If you sleep on your back, it can put a significant strain on your lower back. Instead of letting your back strain for hours each night, put a pillow under your knees. It will maintain a healthy bend and prevent your lower back from tensing up so much all night.
Use a pain journal
When you’re dealing with pain, it’s important to take some control. For some people, a pain journal is just that. At the very least, you can record your pain levels each day. If you want, you can go beyond that and detail what made the pain worse or better. Writing it down can be very helpful. Additionally, when you head to the doctor, you’ll have a great record to share. It will help your doctor make your treatment more effective.
Take time off
Is it easier for you to schedule an appointment or a break? Most people will schedule up their days with appointments and commitments, but when it comes to taking a break, they leave it up to chance. This is how people without pain get burned out – if you actually live with pain, you are already fighting to get through the day. You can’t afford not to take breaks. Schedule breaks with the same dedication as you schedule appointments.
Get moving
A lot of people struggle with the fact that right when they don’t feel like moving, it’s the one thing they need to do the most. Many times, pain is worsened when people hold still for long periods of time. The key is to find a level of activity that suits you and stick to it the best you can. Cultivate resistance to comparing yourself with others, and practice focusing on how activity is benefiting you. Activity helps your entire body, which can be key to having a good day.
Meditate
By “meditate,” we don’t necessarily mean the traditional form of meditating. Instead, we are talking about breathing and being present instead of wrapped up in everything going on around you. Doing so prompts the release of endorphins, which naturally combat pain. More than that, it’s essential to take some time to be still and give both your body and mind some time to reach equilibrium again.
When you contact the Spine INA, you get access to world-class specialists who are passionate about bringing relief to their patients. Contact us for an appointment today!
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