Neurosurgery Specialist Op.Dr. Kerem Bıkmaz gave information about the subject. Chronic pain is different. These pains may continue after an illness or injury has resolved. It can also be caused by a medical condition that is incurable or difficult to treat. Chronic pain can be exhausting and frustrating. It can affect your work, sleep, emotional health, sexuality, and relationships with family and friends. However, there are ways to overcome pain and control it. The causes of chronic pain that most people are bothered by lately and the methods of coping with pain are as follows;
What is the Cause of Chronic Pain?
Sometimes chronic pain is due to a chronic condition, such as arthritis, which causes painful inflammation in the joints, or fibromyalgia, which causes aches and pains in the muscles. Chronic pain can also result from an accident, infection, or surgery that injures the nerves.
Op.Dr. Kerem Bıkmaz continued his words as follows;
HOW TO COPE WITH PAIN?
Chronic pain can take a huge toll on your life and health. The following steps will help you control and relax your pain:
1. KNOW THE PAIN CYCLE
You may reduce your activity because of chronic pain. Lack of regular physical activity can make you lose your form and get tired easily. To break the cycle of pain, you must take steps to address the problems common in chronic pain, such as increased stress, unhealthy habits, depression and anxiety.
2. MANAGE STRESS
Find out what's stressing you out, and then take action to reduce stress whenever you can. For example, planning your day, simplifying your schedule, being organized, and taking breaks throughout the day can help you overcome the stress that comes with chronic pain.
3. CONTINUE WITH HEALTHY HABITS
Regardless of your medical condition, it's important to be as healthy as possible. Maintaining healthy habits is especially crucial when dealing with your chronic pain. What you'll read below can help you regain control of your life and stay healthy despite chronic pain.
4. EXERCISE
It is a common belief that exercise worsens pain. In fact, exercise can reduce pain and alleviate depression and anxiety. Activity can also improve your mood and overall health. Avoiding exercise can make you lose your fitness, which can increase your pain. Talk to your healthcare provider about creating an exercise program that's right for you.
5. DO NOT SLEEP
Most people need seven to eight hours of sleep a night to feel rested. Getting plenty of sleep will provide you with the energy you need to meet the day. Develop some good sleep habits to help you sleep. For example, go to bed at the same time every day and wake up at the same time in the morning, have a bedtime habit, create a pleasant and comfortable environment for sleeping, avoid caffeine.
6. EAT WELL
Eating well gives your body and mind the fuel they need to function. Making and strict adherence to an agreement to follow a healthy diet can help you take control of your physical health and well-being.
7. SET YOUR PACE
For many people with chronic pain, the pain is not always the same. Some days you may feel better than others. On good days, be careful not to burden yourself too much. Overloading can increase your pain and discomfort in the days that follow. Make sure you get up and active even on bad days. Stick to a moderate pace as much as possible.
8. LEARN TO RELAX
It is more than relaxation, peace or rest. To relax is to release tension from your body and mind. Practicing relaxation techniques such as relaxed breathing or gradual muscle relaxation can help relieve stress that can worsen your chronic pain. Relaxation can prevent muscle spasms and reduce muscle tension.