Making New Year’s Resolutions When You Have Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can seem to permeate into every aspect of your life, making it difficult to set hopeful New Year’s resolutions. But, despite the unique challenges of chronic pain, we’re here to help you set thoughtful goals for the year ahead. With a few adjustments and ongoing support, you can achieve relief, comfort, and happiness in the New Year!
Consider these resolutions:
Limit Stressors.
With an over-packed schedule, chronic pain can be even more difficult to manage. This year, try to gradually shorten your to-do lists and carve out time for self-care. Prioritize your most crucial tasks and separate them into manageable steps.
Remain Active with Workouts You Love.
With chronic pain, exercise can be daunting. While it may seem like working out could worsen your pain, it’s actually essential for pain relief. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are “feel good” hormones that naturally alleviate pain.
If you haven’t yet found a form of exercise that you love, try a new, low-impact workout, like dance classes, swimming, water aerobics, spinning, or hiking.
Seek Support from Loved Ones and Qualified Physicians.
You don’t have to deal with chronic pain alone. Gather a circle of support with loved ones and your care team, which may include your primary care physician and a mental health professional. Chronic pain is often an emotional condition, and many people find talk therapy helpful in managing stress and anxiety, both of which can exacerbate your discomfort.
Additionally, the New Year is a wonderful time to take a new approach to pain management with regenerative medicine. Regenerative therapies like stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, can help reduce chronic pain without the need for surgery or prescription medications.
Find a regenerative physician in your area today by browsing the Regenerative Medicine Now database!
