Find a knowledgeable health care provider who understands pain and work with him or her to decide what's best for you.
Take care of the things you can control. Part of being an active participant is caring for your body.- Get adequate rest
- Eat a healthy diet
- Engage in physical activity
All of these things are vitally important to maintaining function and health. Ask your physician which exercises are safe for you.
In addition to a healthy diet and exercise, relaxation techniques may help you feel better. You can try things such as:- Meditation
- Visualization
- Hypnosis
- Biofeedback
Pay attention to your emotional health. Taking care of the emotional aspects of pain is necessary to treat your overall pain condition. Your physician may want to prescribe medication for depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances and, in addition, may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (eg, relaxation techniques, coping strategies, psychological therapy).
Share your thoughts and feelings with loved ones and allow them to share their feelings with you. People cannot read your mind — just as pain is an invisible disease, emotions can be difficult to discern.
Avoid isolation and loneliness by joining a support group. 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.
