Pain is something we all experience at one time or another. When we’ve stubbed our toes as kids to when we’ve fallen down stairs as adults, breaking many bones. Acute pain from a serious injury or back pain, stomach pain, nerve pain, arthritic pain; all are common in our communities.
Recently, we asked pain professionals to share their top pain management tips. Here’s what they said…
Lorimer Moseley
Professor of Clinical Neurosciences and Chair in Physiotherapy at University of South Australia
- Respect your pain…
But don’t be afraid of it because it is providing a big protective buffer to protect your tissues so they heal.
- Ask your clinician to teach you three new things
I.e. things you didn’t already know or wouldn’t have already worked out—that will promote your recovery.
- Hang in there because your body is highly expert at healing and recovering
You might just need some patience, persistence and courage for the journey. It will get better.
Coralie Wales
President of Chronic Pain Australia
- Know that most injuries will heal if you take the time to look after yourself
Seek reassurance from your doctor. Remain connected to your loved ones.
- Make sure you have enough pain relief
There is evidence that inadequate pain relief at the time of the injury can sensitise the nervous system and lead to chronic pain.
- If you have a work injury, avoid arguments with claims staff and other stakeholders in the picture
Arguments, stress, conflict; these all aggravate the nervous system. My experience is that people who have ongoing stress at the time of injury do worse than those that don’t.
Carol Bennett
CEO of Painaustralia
- Timely and effective treatment of acute pain is essential
Acute pain can transition into chronic pain and persist long after the injury has healed, if not managed effectively in the early stages post-injury.
- A positive attitude is important
When recovering from pain, it is important to have a positive attitude. Negative feelings such as being distressed by the pain, catastrophising the pain and fearing re-injury can become obstacles to recovery.
- Take your own journey to recovery
People should avoid comparing themselves with others, even if their injuries are similar.
If you suffer from pain, talk to a doctor who is up-to-date with the latest best practice around treating pain. You can find a local GP by using doctors.com.au and seek a referral to a reputable pain specialist.
This article originally appeared at https://www.recoverfrominjury.com/pain-relief-professionals-recommend/