When it comes to making changes to improve your health or to improve chronic pain, many people get caught up with big goals. Joining the gym and signing up for classes or registering for a 5K might work for some people, but for those with chronic pain, these goals may not be realistic. 

Most likely, it’s a better idea for you to start slow and small with daily, healthy habits. Instead of joining a gym and signing up for a yoga class, try an at-home DVD first. Instead of trying to do a race, make your goal to simply go for a walk around your neighborhood a few times a week. 

Whatever you try, remember that the more active your lifestyle is, the better. It’s a very effective way to help manage pain and stay healthy. Sometimes small, daily habits can add up and make a big difference in eventually achieving larger goals. 

Healthy Habits for Pain Relief

Whether you are suffering from back pain, joint pain, fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraines, or other conditions, focusing on a few daily habits and lifestyle changes can have a significant effect on your overall pain level and well-being.

1. Be as active as possible. Going for a walk or stretching is probably the last thing you want to do when you are suffering from back, knee, or other forms of pain. But a sedentary lifestyle can make pain worse and increase your risk of developing other serious health problems. When you do not exercise, muscles get weaker, which may cause you to suffer from even more pain. Ask your doctor what kinds of aerobic exercises are appropriate for you, and remember that all forms of movement count. Activities such as walking to the mailbox, vacuuming the house, playing outside with your kids, and walking your dog throughout the day can make a big difference.
2. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is always good for your body and overall health. It can be particularly helpful for those who deal with regular headaches, especially dehydration headaches. 
3. Keep in touch with friends and family. For some, dealing with chronic pain leads to isolation and loneliness, both of which can lead to depression. To avoid this, stay connected with people however you can. Leave the house for coffee dates, meet friends at the park, and attend events as you are able. If you are not able to get out as much, be sure you are talking on the phone, texting, or keeping up with people on social media so you don’t feel alone in your struggles or your successes. 
4. Always eat healthy foods. Cooking a healthy meal can be too overwhelming for some people with chronic pain. But healthy options that don’t require much preparation are available, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that fit in with an anti-inflammatory diet. This might mean nuts to snack on, whole grain bread for toast, already washed and cut up fruit, and ready to eat vegetables. These types of foods will help keep your body strong and help boost your defenses against pain.
5. Maintain good personal hygiene. Even if you don’t feel like it, a shower or simply brushing your teeth is important. Get dressed every day. Taking care of these somewhat simple tasks may make you feel better.
6. Keep a pain journal. Not only will this help keep you in tune with your pain, but a pain journal can be a huge help to your doctor. Keep track of your daily pain by recording a pain score between 1 and 10 at the end of every day. Take notes about the activities you did that day and how you felt while doing them. Write down thoughts about what you ate and how you felt afterwards. 

Another thing we encourage you to do is stay in touch with your doctor at Southside Pain Specialists. We want to know if you are experiencing any changes in your condition, and we want to see you for your regularly scheduled appointments. This can help us make changes to your treatment plan as necessary, so we can provide the best possible care. 

Start your pain management journey by scheduling an appointment at Southside Pain Specialists

With highly specialized training and a multitude of pain relief options, Southside Pain Specialists follow the standards of the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians, The American Board of Pain Medicine, and the International Spinal Injection Society. We work hard to provide patients with comprehensive, caring pain relief when they need it most. Check out our website or contact us today at 205.332.3155 to learn more.