Are there alternative therapies that can help me reduce my suffering?
As we have learned more about the connection between mind and body, the role of alternative therapies in treating chronic conditions has grown. Many people with pain find that therapies such as massage, yoga, tai chi, relaxation training, biofeedback, acupuncture, and more can help reduce the impact pain has on their lives.
These therapies can be a helpful addition to, not a replacement for, traditional medical treatment. Discuss with your doctor what might be most useful for you.
To learn more, visit:- http://nccam.nih.gov
- www.nationalpainfoundation.org/MyTreatment/
News_Complementary.asp and see "Using Complementary Therapy to Relieve Pain." - www.painfoundation.org/page.asp?
menu=1&item=2&file=Library/Index.htm and click on "Complementary and Alternative Medicine."
Where can I learn pain management techniques that I can do on my own?
There are many ways to reduce your sense of suffering and improve the quality of your life in spite of pain. A key step is getting involved in your care and regaining control of your life by learning good pain management skills.
Here are some good places to start:Are there support groups for people with pain?
Rebuilding a life devastated by pain is easier with the support and help of those who have been there and can help you find the way back.
A good support group does not dwell on symptoms or losses, but rather focuses on positive actions you can take to improve the quality of your life — with a little help from your friends.
The American Chronic Pain Association has groups across the country. Visit www.theacpa.org/aa_03.asp to find a group near you or visit the American Pain Foundation's PainAid at www.painfoundation.org/PainAid/page.asp?file=page_home.htm or the National Pain Foundation's My Community at www.nationalpainfoundation.org/MyCommunity to join an online group.
What role can families and friends play?
When pain strikes one member of a family or social group, everyone suffers. As a caregiver, family member, or friend of someone with pain, you also have needs.
The American Chronic Pain Association has a manual designed to address the needs of families who live with or care about people with pain. You can read more about it at www.theacpa.org/catalog.asp.
In addition, these links can help you keep a healthy balance in your life while appropriately supporting the person with pain.
