Helping a Loved One Who Is Living with Chronic Pain
Photo via Pixabay by Brenkee
Chronic pain can have a devastating effect on the sufferer, not just because of the physical issues it causes, but because it often brings worry, anxiety, and isolation as well. Many individuals battling chronic pain feel misunderstood; maybe they’ve been told their feelings of pain are due to age or being overweight, or they are made to feel as though their pain isn’t as important as other types of pain. Your loved one may even have trouble completing daily tasks or feeling comfortable within relationships.
If your loved one suffers from chronic pain, particularly if it’s debilitating, be supportive and do what you can to help with tasks they’re unable to manage. You can also help them to succeed in the activities they can do easily, which can provide a much-needed confidence boost. For example, helping your loved one find the time to do the things they truly love — such as gardening, getting out in nature or cooking — will allow them to stay active, which can, in turn, keep them healthy and happy.
Here are a few other ways you can be supportive and help your loved one manage their chronic pain.
Learn More About Their Condition
Twenty years ago, we didn’t know much about chronic pain, and there was no name for it. Today, there’s still an air of mystery surrounding the causes and cures, in part because many individuals living with it differ so vastly in their reactions and recovery time. Educate yourself about your loved one’s specific condition, find out what their needs are, and listen to their concerns. You can also attend doctor’s appointments with them to learn more and to ask questions they may not think to ask.
Help Create a Gut-Friendly Diet
Managing one’s diet can have a profound effect not only on chronic pain and inflammation, but also the gut, because all of these are connectedconnected and play important roles in your overall health. When it comes to the gut, for example, did you know that it’s home to the majority of your body’s microbiome? Everything from the immune system to digestive system can be improved if your loved one’s gut remains healthy. A diet rich in probiotics, along with probiotic supplements, can really make a difference in pain management.
Additionally, focus on eating anti-inflammatory foods such as blueberries, salmon, and coconut oil. A healthy diet can also aid in the treatment of various health conditions like cancer and diabetes, which are big contributors to pain and inflammation.
Get in a Workout
While it may be difficult for those suffering from chronic pain to stay active, keeping a good workout routine can certainly help reduce feelings of pain. Help your loved one stick to a healthy regimen by looking for low-impact exercises to start; swimming, tai chi, and yoga are all great for beginners. You can help out by offering to join in; go for walks after dinner or head out for a hike.
Give yourself a little extra motivation by listening to your favorite tunes—pick up a pair of noise-canceling earbuds for the highest quality sound. Making a workout fun will make it easier to stick to.
Help around the house
Depending on your loved one’s level of pain, consider helping out when it comes to home maintenance and upkeep. While you may have some time to clean and organize, it could be worthwhile to connect your loved one with a reputable cleaning service. The same applies to home maintenance and repairs. Perhaps you can help by mowing the lawn, cleaning out the gutters, or changing air filters. For more extensive repairs, be proactive and track down reliable professionals to get the job done.
Helping your loved one may prove frustrating for both of you in the beginning, but the key is to listen to their concerns and fears and pay attention to their needs. Create a plan for wellness that incorporates a healthy mind, body, and soul so that your loved one will start feeling better in every way, and remember to take care of yourself as well.
If you’re suffering from a physical or accidental injury, reach out to the skilled attorneys at Ferguson and Ferguson. Call (256) 534-3435 for a no-obligation free consultation.