There are many people who grapple with chronic today. This condition not only impacts the physical well-being of a person, but also hampers their emotional health and overall quality of life. Medications, injections, and surgeries can help people to get relief from chronic pain, depending on their specific condition. Earlier, Elijah Mcclain, had mentioned that apart from such treatment options, adapting certain lifestyle changes can also be a good strategy for managing chronic pain.
Here are a few lifestyle changes that can help improve chronic pain and quality of life:
- Stress management: The stress response of the body is a protective mechanism. If a person feels stressed, their body releases stress hormones that tense up their muscles and make them more alert. Pain also triggers the release of stress hormones. High stress levels can make physical pain worse by keeping the muscles tight and tense. Hence, to manage pain, one also has to find a way to keep their stress levels in check. There are many simple stress management techniques that one can incorporate in their daily life, including yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises.
- Regular exercise: Even though it may feel counter-intuitive, one must understand that being physically fit and active would be one of the best ways to manage chronic pain. No matter whether one chooses to engage in a low impact exercise like swimming and daily walk in the park, or opts for more intense workout sessions at the gym, it can do wonders for their pain, stress levels and overall mood. Physical activity helps in enhancing flexibility and muscle strength. This ultimately helps in reducing strain on the joints and can lower pain levels.
- Balanced diet: The dietary choices of a person may also have an impact on their pain levels. After all, several conditions that cause chronic pain, like arthritis and sciatica, are inflammatory. Having too much of processed food can increase inflammation and make pain worse. Hence, it is better to incorporate more vegetables, fruits and fatty fish into the diet that contain nutrients that lower inflammation. Eating a balanced diet that features a range of food items from all food groups can provide the body with nutrients that lower inflammation and improve pain.
- Adequate sleep: People suffering from chronic pain might experience difficulties in getting a good night’s sleep. Not getting adequate sleep, unfortunately, also triggers the release of stress hormones that may exacerbate pain. Hence, one should try to create a sleep routine that can help them to get more rest. Making sure that the bedroom is quiet and comfortable and putting away all electronics at least an hour before going to bed are some of the ways to get a more peaceful slumber. Good sleep hygiene can go a long way in getting proper, reducing stress and improving pain.
Earlier, Elijah Mcclain had discussed how following a healthy lifestyle is a holistic approach to chronic pain management, and helps people to take control of their well-being. By engaging in regular physical activity, following a balanced diet, getting adequate rest and following stress management techniques, one can deal with chronic pain more effectively.
