Our Guide To Managing Chronic Pain
The definition of chronic pain can vary. Some will report it as pain lasting longer than 3 months and others will define it as pain lasting longer than 6 months. The pain can be mild or severe and it can occur in episodes or it can be continuous. When you are suffering with chronic pain, signals of pain remain active in the nervous system for months or even years. This can result in a physical and emotional toll being taken on a person. The most common sources of chronic pain include:
- Headaches,
- Joint pain,
- Arthritis,
- Neuropathy,
- Neck pain, and
- Backaches
Sometimes, generalized muscle or nerve pain can also develop into a chronic condition.
The main symptoms of chronic pain are:
- Mild to severe pain that may vary in intensity or ease for periods of time
- Pain that can be described as shooting, burning, aching, or electrical
- Feeling of discomfort, soreness, tightness or stiffness
What We Recommend
Here at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy, we recommend physiotherapy treatment for your chronic pain. Physiotherapy can help chronic pain by using treatments that disrupt the pattern of pain signals. The introduction of relaxation and self-management strategies can help to improve your quality of life. Our physiotherapists will usually focus on decreasing pain with active therapy. Active physical therapy includes; stretching, strengthening exercises, ergonomics, postural advice, and aerobic conditioning.Diet can also play an important role in the management of chronic pain. Staying hydrated by drinking 2 litres of water per day and consuming food that is easy-to-digest may have a role in alleviating inflammation. Food such as leafy greens, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, low-sugar fruits may benefit you if you are suffering from chronic pain. Whilst including these foods in your diet, you may also want to limit certain type of foods, such as processed foods.Another way in which you can manage chronic pain is by taking Pilates classes. These classes are especially beneficial for anyone who is suffering with chronic back pain because Pilates will improve posture, promote flexibility, and improve strength.If you wish to avail of more information regarding chronic pain, please feel free to contact us.