Ways to Manage Pain Flare-Ups
When you have a pain management plan in place and are feeling better, it can be frustrating when the level of pain increases seemingly out of nowhere. Flare-ups can unfortunately be part of living with chronic pain. What causes these flare-ups can vary but should be watched for and noted to avoid in the future. Your flare-ups may be related to overdoing it physically, increased stress or lack of sleep or sleeping in a bad position. Â
No matter what has prompted a bout of more intense pain, you can try some of these ideas to get through until the episode subsides.
- Make health a priority: When you are a chronic pain patient, you don’t wait to be sick on top of it. Try to stay as healthy as possible with continued healthy habits to keep the germs away.
- Move consistently: We understand that pain can stall any exercise plan, but work every day to move as much as you can whether that is a short walk or more intense jog. Getting outside in nature for a walk, not only gets your body moving, but also can calm your mind. Sunshine and fresh air is always soul soothing.
- Mental health: Your mindset really is as important as your physical health, especially when you are living with the burden of chronic pain. Do something every day during a flare-up to ease your stress. Read a book, watch your favorite movie, sit outside – anything that will put a smile on your face.
- Give yourself a break: We know that you are busy and have lots to do, but when pain flares up, you need to give yourself permission to take a break and rest and relax. Take a nap if needed and try to ease up on your workload, if possible.
- Manage anticipatory anxiety: When you are feeling better, it is understandable that you will worry about pain down the road. Strive to manage your worries and anxiety about pain as they can also trigger flare-ups. Meditation and positivity can go a long way to combat anticipatory anxiety about uncontrollable conditions.Â
- Connect with your doctor: If your flare-up is not subsiding or the pain is more intense than during using flare-ups, check in with your physician. You may need a different medication or treatment to help you get through the episode.Â
Our Physicians Can Help With Treatment Plan
Our team can discuss your treatment plan and having a flare-up strategy in place as well. Your plan is fluid and needs to be changed and updated as your body changes and you face different levels of pain at different times.Â
We are here to listen to our patients with compassion. We will work with you to live your best life every day. Reach out to us through our online contact form to discuss your pain management needs.