Getting older typically means an onslaught of aches and pains, especially as certain health conditions develop. However, you do not have to settle for just accepting the pain as it is. Acknowledging customized strategies, such as the following options, from a reliable physician could help reduce the pain and make it easier to complete tasks while enjoying life regularly.
Stretching
Stretching is something that everyone can do. Many physicians recommend it for everything from easing pain to improving circulation. However, it must be done correctly, as not doing so could cause more harm than good. Ask your doctor for tips on which stretches are best for you and your health.
Massage
Getting a massage is as remarkable for pain relief as it is for relaxation. Getting the correct type of massage from a licensed, qualified masseuse is incredibly important. Check business reviews and ask for recommendations rather than just scheduling an appointment with a place that offers the best rate.
When you call to make an appointment, let them know your health conditions and why you want the massage. They can recommend the correct type of massage for you and the corresponding masseuse.
Swimming
This low-impact exercise can be fantastic for reducing pain. If you do not have a pool in your backyard, see if a facility near you has an indoor or outdoor swimming pool you could use. Make sure to run the idea by your doctor first so they can tell you how many laps would be ideal for you.
Go to the right doctor
According to Oklahoma Interventional Spine & Pain, the right doctor can make all the difference in easing your pain. They will take the time to discuss what hurts you and when and what your best options are for reducing the pain you are experiencing.
Referrals from your current doctors can help you find an excellent specialized doctor. Another option is to do research on your own and/or to get recommendations from trusted loved ones. Read online about the doctor’s reputation, including browsing the feedback from past and current patients, to get an idea of how it would be if you were a patient.
Do not put off scheduling appointments
Many people know they need to schedule a doctor’s appointment, but they put it off for one reason or another. The longer you avoid it, the longer you will likely experience pain. It may also extend the time you have to wait for an appointment. Depending on the doctor, you may need to wait months, while others might be able to get you in much sooner.
Keep doctors appointments
Keeping your appointment is just as important as scheduling one in the first place. Unless you need to cancel, such as if your car breaks down while you are on your way, keep your appointment to talk to your doctor about your pain and how to ease it.
Take medication as directed
It is vital to take your medication only as directed and not make any changes alone. Pain is a way of telling you something is wrong, so if the medication is not helping, it may mean that the doctor needs to adjust the dosage, try a different (or new accompanying) method, or put you on a new medication.
Do not lower or increase your dosage or change when and how you take the prescribed medication. Doing so could end up making you feel worse.
Keep a notebook detailing the pain
When you are experiencing different levels of pain daily, it can be challenging to remember everything from one day to the next, especially if there is a significant amount of time between doctor’s appointments. Keep a daily journal of the pain, including its level on a 1 – 10 scale and what you did that resulted in feeling worse. Bring the notebook to your doctor’s appointments so they can better understand what you deal with every day.
Upgrade your home
Making specific changes around your home may reduce your pain. For example, getting a new cushioned anti-fatigue mat for the kitchen or more complex options like replacing your mattress or implementing a shower system may make a difference. Speak to your doctor about what changes might help you.
Although you are experiencing pain now, it does not mean you must continue living at its current level daily. Adhering to certain habits and making changes could have positive short- and long-term results. Remember that the adjustments might not happen overnight, but they could work in your favor with time.
