Pain is the body's way of communicating with us to let us know that something is wrong. It can come on suddenly without any warning or it can gradually build up over time. It can be as mild as an itch or extremely severe and debilitating. All of us have to deal with pain throughout our lives and we usually take it all in stride. The challenges come, however, when the pain doesn't let up no matter what we do. When pain becomes an everyday part of our lives, it can be disabling and lead to other health problems. Learning chronic pain management, however, can help us to get through it.
What Is Chronic Pain?
Some people may not be sure if their pain is acute or chronic though. While they can both be discomforting and last for months, acute pain usually goes away after the underlying cause is treated. But chronic pain is ongoing. It may or may not have been the result of a previous injury or illness experienced in the past but as time wears on, it will eventually cause a heavy toll on your physical and emotional health. Regardless of the cause or treatment, chronic pain will not go away.
Hydration:
One of the simplest methods of chronic pain management is to stay hydrated. According to the Mayo Clinic, dehydration is believed to be a factor in aggravating the symptoms of many chronic health problems. While many people reach for other forms of beverages when they are thirsty, medical experts tell us that drinks like coffee, soft drinks, and even fruit juice can bring on a diuretic effect in the body. Only water can keep you sufficiently hydrated without adding on the additional calories, caffeine, or sodium.
Watch Your Diet:
Especially in our modern day and age, foods contain certain additives that humans were never meant to eat. In the processing of certain foods some additives, chemicals, preservatives, etc. may be exacerbating the problem. Many are known to lead to inflammation. If you suffer from chronic pain try to avoid nightshade vegetables, dairy products, chocolate, eggs, citrus fruits, high-fat red meats, wheat products, and anything processed. It may also help to avoid drinking red wine, coffee, tea, or soft drinks.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The spice has been found to facilitate treatment for a host of all sorts of health conditions including chronic pain. It's active ingredient curcumin, naturally reduces inflammation in a way that doesn't cause harm to other organs in the body like the kidneys or liver. In fact, it can increase ligament flexibility and gives the immune system a well needed boost.
Aside from these additives to food, you can also incorporate certain behaviors and practices into your daily routine that can help to ease chronic pain. Many have found that yoga, meditation, and maintaining good posture all have proven to be amazingly beneficial treatments for chronic pain.
It can be extremely difficult to live with chronic pain but while it may be a challenge for you to completely rid yourself of the discomfort it brings there are simple ways to get yourself some relief through chronic pain management so that you live a little better.