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Helping Chronic Pain Sufferers

By Randi Morse 

When a family member or close friend is dealing with chronic pain, it can be difficult to know how to act. On one hand you want to be supportive and be there for them; on the other you don't want to bother them. Living with chronic pain is not easy, and the truth is that most people who deal with this pain often don't like to talk about it and may seem to push away any sort of help, many times because they are embarrassed or frustrated.  

Keep Inviting 

Never try to assume what is going on in the life of someone who has chronic pain. Dealing with chronic pain, such as chronic back pain, can be unpredictable. One day the sufferer may be feeling well enough to go grocery shopping and the next day they have a difficult time even getting off the couch. Don't simply assume that your friend or family member will not be able to make a gathering due to their pain condition. Instead, invite them to join you this holiday season at a party, or to go out to a movie or dinner. Make sure when you issue the invitation that you tell your friend that you completely understand if they need to cancel, even at the last minute. 

Don't Get Upset 

When a wounded animal is in pain, they often separate from the pack and find a private place to lick their wounds and heal. The same is often true for people who suffer from chronic back pain. They may choose to stay home alone and may not be great at answering your phone calls or text messages. Don't take this personally. The decisions they make about socializing is not something they take lightly. People in chronic pain always have to weigh the benefits of hanging out with their friends with the costs of the pain that comes with it. 

Be Supportive 

Instead of criticizing, be supportive. Far too often friends and family of chronic pain sufferers criticize them, wondering why the person doesn't just get help and why they can't get treatment for their pain. Instead of criticizing, offer to go with your friend or family member to their treatments. Tell them you'll drive them to their chiropractic appointment or to see their physician and stay with them during the procedure. This support means more then you'll ever realize. 

Chiropractic Alternative

Chiropractic is an excellent option for those who suffer from chronic pain -- described as pain that has lasted longer than six weeks. Pain often emanates from the nervous system, which is directly affected by the spinal cord, which is encased in the spine. Chiropractic is the healthcare form that deals most directly with care of the spine, and releasing vertebrae from their restrictions along the spine can often have a profound effect on pain throughout the body. 

This holiday season don't segregate your friends and family who suffer from chronic pain. Be there for them, be understanding, and make sure they know you love them no matter what.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Austin, Tex. 

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