What to Do When Chronic Pain Gets You Down
By Stephen R. Farris
Dealing with chronic pain can bring on a vast set of emotions. Some days are better than others, yet still the pain persists. But even though chronic pain has become a part of your daily life, there are a few exercises that you can do to help lessen it and make it a little more tolerable.
Cardio
Walking is good for your heart and can help build strength and endurance. You can start with 15 minutes a day a few times per week, and build up to at least 30 minutes daily. Be sure to take along any devices you use to assist with walking, such as your cane or walker. Another form of exercise that isn't quite as stressful on your joints is swimming. Swimming is also good for the heart and can help build up endurance. Check with your local natatorium or YMCA to see if water aerobic classes are available too.
Relaxation Exercises
Try a few relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing techniques. Simply taking deep breaths, holding a few seconds then exhaling, can help relax the muscles in your body and reduce some of the tightness and stiffness. Yoga and tai chi are great exercises to learn and incorporate movements geared to help with relaxation.
Stretching
Doing some light stretching exercises in the morning when you get out of bed, can help loosen up stiff joints and muscles, and give you a little more mobility to accomplish the things you need to do each day. Once again, if you study yoga and tai chi, you'll find that many of their movements involve stretching and can be beneficial for chronic pain sufferers.
Strengthening
No matter what, you still have to keep up and maintain your strength. It doesn't always have to be in the form of weights and dumbbells, but they do help. The main area of your body to concentrate on is your core area. This means your lower back, hips, and glutes. Maintaining a healthy core can also help assist you in strengthening other parts of your body.
And when you have those days in which pain becomes almost unbearable, try visiting your local chiropractor for treatment. They can help give you some relief and may have tips and suggestions to guide you to a more active lifestyle when dealing with chronic pain.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arlington, Tex.