Today I posted a article on Twitter titled “Health Matters: An Integrative Approach to Pain Management”. This article really got me thinking about how so much of chronic pain management is simple, commonsense advice. Simple in theory but difficult in practice.
Multiple approaches are used to help alleviate symptoms of chronic pain. It is important to remember, however, that it is pain management, not cure, and complete alleviation of pain is not possible.
Commonsense advice such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and getting your daily exercise are the foundation of chronic pain management. Other integrative approaches include techniques such as Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, and a variety of electrical modalities.
Interventions to help patients overcome their fear of the chronic pain may help a great deal as well. They may have fears of what may happen if they try to move, or lift or do their activities of daily life. They may need to be educated on proper movement, healthy posture and gradual re-integration of activities. These Commonsense tips can improve their function and decrease their overall pain.
Ask Dr S. 