Statistics suggest that around 20% of American adults experienced chronic pain in 2018. Pain can impact every area of your life, from your professional and social lives to your mental and physical health and wellbeing. If you struggle with pain, here are some coping mechanisms and strategies to help you live more comfortably.
Seek expert advice
Many of us are guilty of burying our heads in the sand or trying to soldier on when we don’t feel 100%. We assume that we’ll feel better tomorrow or next week, or we secretly hope that whatever is causing us problems magically disappears. While there are instances when we recover from injuries or illness without the need for intervention or treatment, chronic pain should never be ignored. If you have pain that is ongoing or persistent, or your symptoms have become more severe, seek expert advice. When you see a doctor, they will examine and assess you and ask you questions about your symptoms, for example, when the pain is most intense. Often, pain is associated with an injury or a trigger of some sort, and it’s possible to utilize treatments, techniques and lifestyle changes to reduce the severity of discomfort and manage long-term symptoms. Your doctor may refer you to other health professionals, they might recommend specific exercises or changes in your lifestyle habits or they may prescribe treatments, such as medication. It’s important to listen to trained experts and to take their advice on board. You are not burdening anyone by arranging an appointment, and the sooner you get help, the better. Addressing issues early can help to lower the risk of the situation getting worse.
Consider using pain relief remedies
If you took a moment to search online for pain relief remedies, you would be greeted by pages and pages of results. When it comes to trying treatments, it’s always beneficial to follow instructions from qualified medical professionals and to check before you take medication or you try solutions like CBD gummies for pain. Some forms of treatment are not suitable for everyone, there can be interactions between different types of drugs, and some online remedies may not have scientific backing. Seeking advice can help you pinpoint safe treatments, which are likely to be effective for you.
Maintain good posture
Globally, back pain is the most common cause of disability. In the US, around 50% of workers suffer from back pain. One of the main triggers for back and shoulder pain is poor posture. Your posture is crucial because it relates to the position of the spine when you are either sitting or standing. If you’re slumped over your keyboard, or your back is hunched when you stand, this can increase pressure on the muscles in the back, contributing to discomfort. If you work at a desk, always ensure that your back is straight and your shoulders relaxed. Your monitor should be at eye-level and you should be able to type without stretching. Rest your wrists on the desk and adjust the height of your table or chair to make sure you’re not craning to see the screen. Take regular breaks to stretch your back and get the muscles in your arms and legs moving. When you’re standing for long periods, keep your spine straight and let your shoulders sink slightly. If you’re lifting heavy objects, keep your back straight, use the power in your legs and bend your knees.
Invest in a high-quality mattress
Most people spend around 7-8 hours every night in bed. A comfortable, supportive mattress can play a critical role in aiding sleep and reducing the severity of pain in the back, shoulders, neck, hips, and knees. Choose a mattress that will provide sufficient stability and support, as well as comfort. For back pain, for example, it’s often best to opt for a firm or medium-firm surface rather than a soft mattress. Ask your doctor for recommendations and compare products and read reviews before you make a decision.
Condition your body
It’s not possible to prevent every injury, but conditioning your body can help to lower the risk. Look after your physical health, always warm-up and cool down when you exercise, and take the time to stretch, tone, and strengthen your muscles. If you already suffer from pain, it’s essential to ask for advice when trying new activities or working out. There are some types of exercise that may not be suitable, for example, high-impact activities.
Millions of people in the US experience chronic pain. If you’re struggling, or you’ve noticed that your symptoms are getting worse, don’t hesitate to seek advice. Look after your body, maintain good posture, invest in a good mattress, and explore pain relief remedies that are recommended by health experts.
