Managing Arthritis Pain.
Last updated Tuesday, January 04, 2005
Controlling painCan pain be controlled? There are many things you can do to help control your arthritis pain. The goals of these methods are to control pain by:
- learning new ways to reduce pain
- taking as few pain medicines as possible
- changing pain habits that disrupt your normal lifestyle
- increasing your physical and social activity so you can return to an active life, as much as possible
The methods listed here will work differently for different people.
So, some methods may work for you, but some may not. Some methods are
things you can do for yourself. Others require help from your doctor or
other health professionals. Talk to your doctor about these methods.
With a little practice, you will find the right ones for you. Taking control Your mind plays an important role in how you feel pain and in how
you respond to illness. People with arthritis often feel helpless and
depressed about their condition. With these feelings, come decreased
activity, poor self-esteem, and increased pain. So, building a sense of
control by adjusting your thoughts and actions is an important part of
pain management.
Below are some ways you can take control of your thoughts and
actions to help control your pain. Thinking differently may not get rid
of your pain entirely, but having a more positive attitude can help.
Many of these methods are easier said than done. But with practice and
patience, you can master them, too.
Research your condition
Try to learn what causes your pain and how to control it.
Learn about treatment options
Find out about available medications. When taking medicine, be sure
to follow your doctor's instructions and read the directions that come
with the medication. Alternative therapy can also be an option.
Exercise regularly
Through exercise, you can help manage your pain and ease symptoms of
chronic pain such as the pain from osteoarthritis. A doctor may
recommend an exercise program or refer you to a specialist, such as a
physical therapist or occupational therapist.
Protect your body
Ask a doctor about how to do routine tasks in a way that reduces stress on joints. Listen to your body when it signals that it needs rest.
Keep a positive attitude
Having arthritis and the pain that goes with it can lead to a life
built around pain and sickness. One way to reduce your pain is to build
your life around wellness, not pain or sickness. Live what is called a
"wellness lifestyle." This means to think positive thoughts, keep a
sense of humor, eat a balanced diet, exercise
every day, and enjoy activities with others. It also means following
your treatment plan, taking your medication properly, and practicing
relaxation.
Arthritis can limit you, but it doesn't have to control your life.
Talk to your doctor, nurse, or therapist about how you can make your
life more healthy. Get involved in a favorite activity or hobby. Remind
yourself of what you can do rather than what you can't do. You'll feel
better and your pain will not seem as severe.
Don't dwell on your pain
How often do you think about your pain? The amount of time you spend
focusing on it has a great deal to do with how much discomfort you
feel. People who dwell on their pain usually say their pain is worse
than those people who don't dwell on it. One way to take your mind off
the pain is to focus on someone or something else. Whether it's going
to the movies, visiting with family or friends, volunteering, or
dancing, follow through on planned activities. It will boost spirits
and might even block some of those pain signals.
Everyone has the ability to be distracted. The more you focus your
attention on something outside of your body, the less you will be aware
of physical discomfort. For example, get involved in an activity or
hobby you enjoy, develop a new interest, or get involved with helping
others. If you can't help but think about the pain, try to think about
it differently. Think of the pain as your body's message to do
something different.
Change your pain habits
It's easy to slip into the habit of drinking alcohol or taking more
medicines to escape your pain. If you answer "yes" to any of the
questions below, you may need to find new ways to handle your pain.
- Do you drink alcohol several times a day?
- Do you use up pain medication faster than you used to?
- Do you spend all day in bed?
- Do you talk about pain or arthritis much of the time?
Changing your pain habits will help you feel better. One way to make
a change is to do something positive in place of the old habit and to
reward yourself. Discuss these habits with your doctor, nurse or other
health care workers who specialize in pain management. Ask them to help
you find new ways to cope with your pain.
Create a pain management plan
You can make a chart of your own pain control methods. This will
help you keep track of which methods you have used, and which ones work
best for you. Adapt it often. Post it where you can refer to it often,
such as on your refrigerator or medicine cabinet.
Seek support
Share your successes and frustrations with others--whether it's with
family, friends, loved ones, or others that have pain. Find out about
support groups in the community and learn how others are overcoming
their pain. Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Take control of your pain, so it doesn't control you.
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