Because of the effect pain can have on one's life the psychosocial aspect of care can have significant impact on treatment. Studies have shown that almost two thirds of patients with chronic nonmalignant pain have coexisting symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Because of a feeling of helplessness many patients have when trying to relieve chronic pain, patients are in danger of assuming what is called a "sick role." After countless doctors office visits, referrals upon referrals, and a myriad of diagnostic tests, some patients will become the victim of their pain symptoms. This sick role can have positive benefits such as attention, sick leave, and sympathy from others. However, it can also cause significant isolation and feelings of worthlessness.
Learning to manage the pain can be just as important as treating the pain. By not falling victim to chronic pain, patients maintain control of their health and the potential for curing their symptoms. Here are some suggestions for managing chronic pain and avoiding the sick role:
- Stay Active
Chronic pain has been shown to improve only when a patient't level of activity increases. While many patients will feel bound to a sedentary lifestyle because of their pain, there are always exercises and rehabilitation no matter how difficult the situation. Physical therapy should focus on reconditioning, stretching, and pain reduction modalities (e.g. ice, heat, ultrasound, etc.). - Focus on Others
Be active in your community, stay in touch with friends and family, and look for volunteer activities. By keeping active with friends and family you will feel less isolated, and by maintaining active in your community you will pay more attention to others?problems and less to your own. - Accept Your Pain
Don't deny or exaggerate your symptoms, and perform your daily functions accordingly. If there are things you need help with, don't be afraid to ask. If you are avoiding things you can do, make an effort to do those activities. - Stay Healthy
Abnormal weight and sleep disturbance have both been shown to adversely affect pain treatment. Get a good night of sleep on a regular schedule and eat a healthy diet. Harmful habits such as tobacco, alcohol, and drug use all make pain more difficult to treat. Specifically, nicotine is associated with increased pain levels, and may decrease the effectiveness of treatment medications by altering their blood levels.
As described earlier, there are many aspects to treating pain adequately. Unfortunately, the easy route is by far the least effective. Treating chronic pain solely with analgesic medications is seldom successful, and can be more damaging than helpful. By incorporating physical therapy, rehabilitation, nutrition, psychological, and other treatment modalities, the odds that you will find relief are vastly increased. This multidisciplinary approach has been shown to be an extremely effective method of treating chronic nonmalignant pain. (2)
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