August 24th, 2021
It is definitely August in Kansas! It is important to listen to your body when temperatures and heat indexes get this high. Make sure you are staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade to cool off. This week we will discuss treatment options and coping methods in dealing with pain. As discussed last week, the treatments for pain are as endless as the types of pain, so this list is not exhaustive, but it is a great place to begin.
My personal preference is to begin with the least evasive and most economical options available and appropriate to the situation. I firmly believe in the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, which is why I regularly stretch and walk. Exercise also helps to keep your body functioning properly. If you experience pain when exercising, I suggest that you work with a personal trainer to get one-on-one help. They will be able to ensure you are doing the exercises correctly and provide modified exercises, if necessary.
I also am working on the nutrition side of my diet. Something interesting that I found in my research on food/nutrition is that there have been studies done showing that food can be the source of inflammation in our bodies, resulting in pain. Sometimes supplements are recommended in addition to diet, because a good source of the vitamin/nutrient is not readily available, or the quantity/quality are lacking in a food source. The quality of your vitamins and supplements is of upmost importance. If you need help in this area, contact me to schedule a wellness consultation.
Have you tried meditation? This may seem very woo-woo to you, but don’t knock it until you at least give it a shot. This can help center your mind, so that you are able to hear and listen better to what your body/mind is telling you. Scheduling downtime during a busy season of your life is a great step in your self-care journey. Scheduling monthly massages can help you mentally cope with pain, as well as possibly providing relief from pain by targeting the source. I also recommend seeing a chiropractor and/or acupuncturist to treat physical pain.
For more severe pain, western medicine may be the only option that helps. Seeing a doctor for pain medicine, muscle relaxers and/or surgery is an option. Every situation is different and there is no shame in asking for help to deal and cope with pain. It is most important to relieve the pain and begin enjoying life again. Pain should never steal your joy of life, long-term. Reach out to me if you need more ideas/direction when it comes to addressing your pain.
Whether this is the first time reading my blog, or you are a loyal subscriber, Thank you! I am so glad you tuned in this week! Do you have a friend or family member that could benefit from this blog? Tell them to subscribe!
Have a blessed week ~ Lacey