Pain Management Tips for coping with chronic pain
Summer in Naples is perfect for quiet afternoons on the beach, lazy shopping trips on 5th avenue south, or relaxing dinners at one of our many great restaurants. However, many summer outings are cut short by chronic pain. Below you will find pain management tips to help you cope with your chronic pain.
Hydration, hydration, hydration
We said it 3 times and it’s still not enough! Headache and back pain are two common forms of chronic pain. They are also 2 conditions that are often improved by drinking the right amount of water.
How much you should drink is determined by factors such as weight, exercise, and climate. However, as a general suggestion, you should drink ½ -1 ounce of water per pound.
Did someone say salad?
Eat foods that foods that alleviate inflammation
Inflammation can increase your chronic pain. Luckily, Naples is home to many great restaurants with plenty of healthy options. Look for meals that include:
- Leafy green veggies
- Nuts
- Olive Oil
- Tomatoes
- Fruits
Foods to avoid:
- Fried foods
- White bread & pastries
- Soda
- Red Meat
Don’t stress out
Chronic pain can affect your emotional well-being, and your emotional well-being can affect your chronic pain. Seeing a psychologist can help you discover ways to better deal with stress in a healthy manner. Less stress can often lead to less pain.
Breath deep
Meditation has been known to relax your body. Focusing on your breathing can take your mind off your chronic pain. Wake up early and head down to the beach, spread out your towel, take in the beautiful view, close your eyes, and breath.
Keep active
Exercising is great for chronic pain. First, it helps strengthen your muscles which can help reduce your pain. Second, when you exercise your brain releases endorphins. Endorphins block pain signals. Living in southwest Florida means that you have no excuse for not being active. From bocce to golf, bike riding to tennis, running to swimming, Naples has plenty of options for staying active, healthy, and reducing chronic pain.
Speak with a Neurologist about your chronic pain
Many neurologists specialize in pain management. If your chronic pain is intensifying or unbearable they can work with you to determine that best treatment options. Nerve blocking injections as well as medication are often helpful for chronic pain.
The Neurology department of Neuroscience and Spine Associates is home to neurologists who specialize in pain management. Their commitment to helping those with chronic pain is what makes us one of the top neurology practices in the Naples & Fort Myers areas.
