Prevention Tips for Chronic Pain

Regular Post

30 Dec

Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Peripheral Neuropathy, Nerve Pain Treatment, Pain Management, Pain Treatment, Carolina Pain Scrambler, Greenville South Carolina, Prevention

Prevention Tips for Chronic Pain

The approach to pain management largely depends on what’s causing the pain. When it’s a byproduct of an ongoing health condition, the focus is finding a good pain management strategy to keep discomfort at a minimum. But when it’s rooted in an isolated event or injury, you can focus not only on treatment, but also the prevention of chronic pain. In situations like this, it’s worth asking – can you keep acute pain from becoming chronic? The answer isn’t simple – pain is complex and unique to each individual – but there are some things that you can do to prevent pain from taking hold in the long-term. And, similar to other chronic diseases like diabetes and heart attacks, one of the keys to prevention is understanding the risk. Certain events have been identified as being high risk for developing chronic pain.

Surgeries. Though most all surgeries are painful, some are particularly associated with developing chronic pain: mastectomies, thoracotomies (opening up the chest), joint replacements, amputations, and spine surgeries like laminectomies and fusions. With each of these different types of surgeries, it is common to experience persistent nerve pain related to the operation. There are ongoing studies looking for ways to block excessive nerve irritation during these surgeries, including starting anti-neuropathic pain medications, like pregabalin, gabapentin, and venlafaxine prior to the surgery. If you have a procedure scheduled, talk to your surgeon ahead of time to see if this would be appropriate for your situation.
Acute trauma. Acute trauma, like motor vehicle accidents or fall injuries, carries an elevated risk of chronic pain. There are usually multiple reasons for this, related to both physical and psychological factors. High-impact injuries from events like falling off of a ladder or getting rear-ended on the freeway cause significant jarring to joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves of the body, causing a chain reaction that leaves the musculoskeletal system over-tensed and the nervous system over-activated in such an intense way that it may not let up. The emotional response to the injury only serves to further amplify this response. Behavioral health experts often work with patients to treat anxiety, and even PTSD, that is often associated with going through traumatic injuries. Reducing symptoms of distress early after an injury can play a key role in promoting a quicker recovery and diminishing the chances of progressing into chronic pain.
Low back pain. Unlike other acute injuries, like a sprained ankle, where rest is a necessary part of the recovery process, low back injuries don’t heal as well with prolonged bed rest. Recovery is quicker when appropriate movements and a return to typical daily activities are started early on after a back injury. For added guidance on safe exercises and activities, consider working with a movement specialist such as a physical therapist, chiropractor, or Pilates instructor until you feel comfortable doing things on your own.

Past studies suggest that belief patterns also play a role in the development of chronic pain. For example, catastrophizing, when you think the absolute worst about a given situation, can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness. Catastrophizing is a known risk factor for developing chronic pain, while feeling more optimistic seems to be associated with improvements in health and well-being. One theory on how chronic pain can develop is known as fear-avoidance, where pain or even the anticipation of pain creates so much fear about further injury, that a person starts to shut down and avoids certain movements. These behavioral changes brought on by high levels of fear are felt to increase the likelihood of developing more widespread and lasting pain. One way that can help patients change unhealthy perceptions is by approaching things in a very slow and deliberate fashion. Each little accomplishment along the way builds confidence, and the more confidence that is built, the easier it is to wash away negative feelings like fear and anxiety that stand in the way of recovery.With so many different factors contributing to chronic pain, the approach to prevention should be multidimensional – better education, the right medications, exercise and physical therapy, counseling, and even good nutrition. If you are experiencing acute pain, talk to your doctor about how you might leverage these tools to keep your pain from transitioning into a chronic problem.

Article Provided By: WebMD

If you would like to discuss what Carolina Pain Scrambler do to help relieve your chronic pain symptoms or receive more information on our treatment process, please do not hesitate to call us at 864-520-5011 or you can email us at info@carolinapainscrambler.com

Regular Post

23 Dec

Pain Management, Pain Relief, Chronic Pain, Pain Treatment, Peripheral Neuropathy, Carolina Pain Scrambler Center, Greenville South Carolina

Pain Management During the Holidays

The holiday season can be an intense time for many chronic pain patients, with plenty of highs and lows. The pressure of participating in family get-togethers, shopping for gifts, and hosting gatherings can easily turn up stress levels. And more stress often leads to worse chronic pain.

In addition to the extra activities and running around, the holidays can also be a highly emotional time. This can be a time of deeper depression, greater loneliness, and even feelings of loss or guilt. For some, mood changes at this time of year are a result of seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression associated with seasonal changes (often referred to as the “winter blues”). These mood changes can make pain management more difficult.

Seasonal weather changes can also affect the experience of chronic pain. Patients often say that the colder weather and changes in barometric pressure increase their pain levels.

Food can create problems, too. The holidays are often a time for baking and gatherings that are centered around food, and along with that come tempting treats and snacks. Many of these goodies may be high in sugar, and sugary foods are typically considered pro-inflammatory, meaning they increase tissue inflammation in places like painful joints. Processed savory foods, like cured meats and crackers, are often high in salt, which can lead to swelling and water retention around painful hotspots. Conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia can certainly get aggravated by these pro-inflammatory foods, and certain cheeses, chocolate, and red wine, all popular during the holidays, serve as common triggers that migraine sufferers need to watch out for.

If you find yourself struggling more with chronic pain during this time of year, having a special plan in place for the holidays may be helpful. Here are some pain management tips to keep in mind when developing an effective game-plan:

Keep it simple. This can be a hectic time of year, with lots to get done, but adding extra tasks to your busy day may do more harm than good. Avoid trying to do too much by setting aside some down days to regroup and recharge. On your down days, make a point of doing something that you know will help reduce pain and stress, whether that be going for a nice walk, scheduling a visit with the chiropractor, or taking in a yoga class.
Laugh as much as possible. Some of your social interactions during this season may be stressful – it can be frustrating talking about your pain with friends or family members who aren’t sympathetic. So make a point of scheduling time to visit or call the special people in your life who know how to make you smile and giggle. And have a funny show or movie available for those times when some lightness is most needed.
Make an anti-inflammatory tool kit. An easy first step is to keep a bottle of plain water with you. Staying well-hydrated is really important, and drinking plenty of water is a good way to avoid overdoing it on sugary or alcoholic beverages. Having a bag of nuts handy is another effective preventive strategy to avoid over-eating pro-inflammatory treats, while filling up on healthy anti-inflammatory fats. Once you have the basics, then consider adding things to your tool kit that you happen to enjoy, like bags of green tea, ginger shots, or a mix of relaxing songs that put you in the right mood.

Hopefully these pain management tips will help you get the absolute best out of your holiday season!

Article Provided By: WebMD

image Post

16 Dec

CRPS, Pain Relief, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Peripheral Neuropathy, Pain Treatment, Pain Management, Carolina Pain Scrambler Center, Greenville South Carolina

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Info

Complex regional pain syndrome is a rare, chronic, and sometimes progressive condition. It involves spontaneous or evoked pain in a region, or area of the body.

It usually affects one of the arms, legs, hands, or feet after an injury, but complications can impact the whole body, including the internal organs.

It appears to be an autoimmune condition, in which the body responds in an unusual way to a perceived threat. As the immune system fights to defend the body, inflammation occurs.

Symptoms that distinguish the pain of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) from that of other types of pain are autonomic and inflammatory signs such as changes in skin color, temperature, or sweating.

A person who develops CRPS after experiencing an injury may find that they have pain that is more severe than they would normally have expected with such an injury.

CRPS can affect people of any age, but it usually appears between the ages of 40 and 70 years, and it is more common among females.

Severity ranges from self-limiting and mild to severe and debilitating.

Types

The severity and frequency of symptoms vary widely. Some people have repeated episodes, while others find that symptoms disappear forever after a few months.

There are two types of CRPS:

Type 1: An apparently trivial injury, such as a fractured or sprained ankle, has occurred, but with no confirmed nerve damage. This type was previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy.

Type 2: This may emerge after breaking a bone, having surgery, or after a serious infection. There is clear evidence of nerve damage. This type was previously known as causalgia.

However, debate about the classification of these types is ongoing. Since nerve injury is sometimes found in people with type 1, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) notes that the distinction between the two categories may be removed at some point.

Some experts suggest that Trusted Source type 1 is not CRPS at all, but that is it either a normal reaction or the result of treatment received after a trauma.

Symptoms

Symptoms include severe and continuous pain, often in part or all of a limb. It has been described as “burning” or a combination of burning and electrical shocks.

If CRPS happens after an injury, the pain of the injury may be unusually severe. For example, an ankle sprain may trigger an unbearable burning sensation. The pain may not be limited to the area where the injury occurred.

Damage to a toe or finger, for example, may lead to pain in the whole limb, or even pain in the opposite extremity.

The affected part can become hypersensitive. Touching, bumping, or exposing the limb to temperature changes may cause severe pain.

Muscle atrophy, or wasting, can result, if the patient stops using the limb because of the pain.

There may also be:

changes in skin temperature
fluid retention (edema) and sweating
changes in skin color, causing blotches or streaks, ranging from very pale to pink, and perhaps with a blue tinge
changes to finger and toenails
thin and shiny skin texture
unusually fast or slow nail and hair growth
painful, stiff, and inflamed joints
difficulty co-ordinating muscle movement
unusual movement in the limb

The limb may be fixed in an abnormal position or may experience movements such as jerking or tremors.

Mobility can be reduced, as it becomes difficult to move the affected part.

Causes

As mentioned above, CRPS may develop following an injury or surgery. The exact cause is not clear, but multiple mechanisms may be involved.

Research published in 2005 lists the likely mechanisms as:

trauma-related release of cytokines, substances produced by the immune system
exaggerated inflammation in the nervous system
changes to the nervous system that cause the pain to continue

Some people may have an existing abnormality in the peripheral nerves that make them more sensitive if damage occurs. If the individual experiences an injury, they may react to it in a different way than most people do.

Some theories propose that inflammation and changes in the brain and sympathetic, peripheral, and spinal nervous systems, aggravated by immobility, may contribute.

CRPS does not always result from an obvious injury. It may happen because of damage that has occurred internally, such as a blood vessel problem.

If CRPS occurs in members of the same family, it may be more severe, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role or make some people more susceptible.

Diagnosis

If a patient seeks medical help, and they may have CRPS, the doctor will ask about their medical history and will look for swollen joints and changes in skin temperature and appearance.

The diagnosis is based on clinical findings that exclude other possible causes.

A number of diagnostic tests can help eliminate other causes and confirm a diagnosis.

Blood tests can help exclude infection or inflammation in the joints as a possible cause of symptoms.

Scans, such as ultrasound, may be used to rule out a blood clot, known as deep vein thrombosis.

Thermography measures skin temperature of specific parts of the body. High or low skin temperature in the affected area could indicate CRPS.

Electrodiagnostic testing, or nerve conduction studies, involve attaching wires to the skin and measuring the electrical activity of nerves. Abnormal readings could indicate nerve damage, and possible type 2 CRPS.

X-rays can detect mineral loss in the bones at later stages.

An MRI scan, a blood test or a biopsy can rule out underlying problems with bones or tissue.

Treatment

There is little definitive treatment for CRPS, and the course is best determined by the doctor who treats it. Early treatment is most effective, and it is best for a specialty pain clinic to assess and determine a plan.

Treatment may involve a neurologist, a physical therapist, and other specialists.

As CRPS affects the nervous system, it can lead to a wide range of complications throughout the body.

Issues that have been linked to CRPS include:

chest pain
changes to the way the body perceives and manages pain
problems with thinking and memory
lethargy, fatigue, and weakness
rapid pulse and heart palpitations
breathing problems
fluid retention
muscle weakness, bone loss, and other musculoskeletal problems
rashes, mottling, and other skin problems
urological problems such as difficulty urinating or incontinence
gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
gastroesophageal reflux
low cortisol levels and hypothyroidism

If the condition remains untreated or treatment starts late, there may be muscle wasting and contracting of the hand, fingers or foot, as the muscles tighten.

Regular Post

9 Dec

Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Peripheral Neuropathy, Carpal Tunnel, Pain Management, Pain Therapy, Carolina Pain Scrambler Center, Greenville South Carolina

How to Manage Chronic Pain At Work

According to the United States Department of Labor, Labor Day is a “yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.” Since it’s estimated that around 100 million United States citizens suffer from chronic pain, it’s safe to assume that a lot of our country’s workers deal with pain and discomfort on a regular basis. Thankfully, there are several simple workplace changes that can help you manage your chronic pain. Here’s how to manage chronic pain at work.

1. Talk to your boss

Pain levels can fluctuate from day to day, sometimes even from minute to minute. If your pain flares up and you need to leave early, your boss will probably be a lot more understanding if you’ve discussed your chronic pain condition with him or her in advance.

Speaking with your boss is also a good opportunity to bring up workplace accommodations. For instance, many companies now offer employees the option to tele-commute from home on days when they’re unable to come to work.

2. Look into workplace wellness programs

On-site gyms, massage therapists, and ergonomic specialists are becoming more and more common. Each wellness program is different. Some companies might provide employees with gym memberships, while others may have vending machines stocked with healthy snacks. If your workplace doesn’t have a wellness program, consider bringing it up in the next meeting, along with a few realistic suggestions. For example, don’t suggest that your small, three-employee company should build an on-site gym; instead suggest something like a company team in a local charity walk.

3. Be mindful of your body position

For office workers, this means making sure you have an ergonomic desk setup. Your monitor should be at eye-level. Both your knees and elbows should be at a comfortable 90 degree angle. Your feet should rest flat on the floor. If in doubt, bring this up to your boss; many companies have someone available to help you make sure your desk is set up as ergonomically as possible.

For people who work in a more physical job, this means being careful of how you move your body – particularly during repetitive actions or while lifting heavy objects. Avoid awkward or twisting movements. When lifting objects, try to use the legs and stomach muscles, instead of depending on your back to do all the work. Make sure your back is straight when you lift things. Always talk to your doctor too, if you suffer from chronic pain at work as they can make suggestions for improving your work space.

4. Adjust your schedule

You know your body better than anyone else. Is your pain worse in the morning? Does rushing around make you hurt worse? Pay attention to when your pain is worst. If possible, alter your work schedule accordingly. For example, if hurrying makes you hurt, get up a little earlier in the morning, or start your workday a little later. If mornings are your worst time of day, ask if you can switch to a different shift.

5. Start the morning right

The morning’s activities set the tone for the entire day. Waking up late, rushing to shower and dress, before scarfing down a toaster pastry is a routine that elevates stress levels before you even leave the door.

Shift the tone by waking early enough to enjoy a more reasonably paced morning, which of course begins by sleeping well the night before. Also consider taking five or ten minutes in the morning to meditate, focusing on the breath and starting the day from that place of stillness.

Eat a healthy breakfast, perhaps fruit, granola and yogurt, oatmeal, or an egg with a slice of whole-wheat toast. Fill up the tank of your body and mind before leaving the house so you have the energy to engage the day with enthusiasm.

6. Take advantage of your breaks

Don’t spend your breaks sitting at your desk, messing with your phone. Do something that will make you smile or make you feel rejuvenated. Go outside for a few minutes. Read a book. Put your earbuds in, turn on some happy music, and dance in the break room. This list of self-care ideas has a some great ideas to make the best of your break, like cloud-watching, deep breathing exercises, or planning a future vacation.

Some companies are even incorporating unique breakrooms to help their employees stay at their best. Nap rooms, yoga spaces, and games have all been incorporated into some successful companies.

7. Keep moving

Sitting for long periods without moving has been linked to several different health conditions, such as obesity, cardiovascular issues, and diabetes. Staying immobile is also not a good thing for people with chronic pain. Try to stand up and stretch for a couple minutes every hour, or take a quick walk around the office. Instead of emailing your coworker a question, walk to his or her desk and ask in person. Consider walking or biking to work. If you have chronic pain at work, that may not be an option. Instead, park at the far end of the parking lot, or ride the elevator to the floor below your destination and take the stairs the rest of the way up.

8. Pack a bag

Knowing that you’re prepared for a potential pain flare can really help with stress levels. Make sure you’ve got water and any medications you might need, plus a healthy lunch so you don’t have to brave the cafeteria food, but don’t stop there. A few other items you might find helpful for chronic pain at work include:

A comfy outfit (but let your boss know why you’re wearing sweats at work)
A heating pad or ice pack
A comfort food that won’t spoil, like chocolate (as long as it won’t worsen your pain)
Something bland to nibble on, like crackers, in case you need something to eat with pills
Sunglasses

9. Make workplace suggestions

Teachers often encourage their students to voice questions by pointing out that if they have a question, odds are someone else is wondering the same thing. The same can be true for your workplace. If the flickering fluorescents in the break room bother you, they probably bother other people, too. If a coworker’s floral-scented candle triggers headaches and nausea, politely ask him or her not to use it at work anymore. Request that the cafeteria or vending machines offer a few healthier options. Ask permission for you and your coworkers to spruce up an outdoor space with benches, flowers, shrubs, or a tree, or recruit a few colleagues to help you spend a weekend beautifying the breakroom.

Approach your boss respectfully and tactfully with workplace suggestions, and be realistic. If you need specific accommodations because of a disability, consider following this example format to write a request letter. Know what accommodations you’re entitle to under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you’re being denied a reasonable accommodation, do your research and, if warranted, file a charge.

10. Watch your stress levels

Between deadlines, catty coworkers, and brash bosses, working may bring home the bacon, but it can also drive a person crazy. Work stress affects as many as 70% of all U.S. adults. Meanwhile, the detrimental health effects linked to chronic tension leads experts to attribute as many as 10% of all strokes specifically to work stress, according to the American Institute of Stress (AIS).

While all this anxiety is likely harming your health, fortunately, there are many ways to manage it.

This Is How You Can Manage Chronic Pain At Work | ArizonaPain.com

Why is managing work stress so important?

Long-term stress leaves your body in the so-called flight-or-flight response semi-permanently. That increases the risk for high blood pressure, weight gain around the stomach—one of the more dangerous areas to carry excess fat—and inflammation, which is important to manage for people with chronic pain.

Stress is the underlying cause of as many as 60% of all human diseases, according to AIS. Tension not only makes it difficult to get through the day, but can also elevate your risk of stroke by 50% and heart disease by 40%. Heart disease is the top killer in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Keep in mind there are two types of stress—acute and long-term. Acute stress can actually be beneficial. It gives you that rush of adrenaline to knock the boss’ socks off during that important meeting or help you find inspiration you didn’t know you had just before a big deadline.

The problem is when stress levels stay elevated over time. Here’s how to make sure they come down.

Establish a good sleeping routine

The foundation for a good day actually begins the night before, with a solid seven or eight hours’ rest.

Getting enough sleep is critical for making it through the day with less work stress. Being well-rested ensures you have the energy reserves to deal with problems or complications with a level head. Fatigue often makes people impatient and more easily agitated, according to WebMD.

Ironically, many people are sleeping less so they can work more, according to research from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). People who worked multiple jobs or had longer commutes were most likely to sleep fewer hours.

While getting enough sleep is critical for optimal functioning and reducing stress, feeling tension is ironically a common reason why people find it difficult to sleep.

To encourage a restful night of shuteye, consider turning off electronics after a certain time and establishing a relaxing nighttime routine. You may meditate, do some gentle stretching, take a bath, or drink a cup of non-caffeinated tea. Taking time to unwind could help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful slumber.

Identify sources of stress

Listing all the items causing you work stress is the first step to figuring out a stress-reduction approach. This is your private list that nobody else will see, so feel free to write down the things you’d never say out loud to anyone. After creating the list, categorize the items, checking off those things that are changeable and those that aren’t.

For example, if you have too many projects on your plate, try to delegate. If you’re not in a position to delegate, talk with your boss and ask for help prioritizing or creating better processes to help you meet deadlines. Bosses want to create a good environment to encourage quality work, so most will be receptive to you coming forward.

Colleagues represent another common source of tension, with as many as 80% of workers reporting strained interactions, reports Fast Company. To alleviate this source of work stress, first consider your own perspectives. Sometimes, colleagues cause stress because they remind us of people in our past. Once you realize this, it could lighten the situation right away.

Another possible solution is to talk with the difficult colleague if they do something that really sets you off. If you’re angry that a coworker cut you off in a meeting, try to have a rational discussion about it after you’ve cooled down and learn where that person is coming from, and then calmly tell that person how you feel. Ultimately, keep in mind that not everybody will be a best friend. Keep it professional, but also set boundaries so you don’t get too irritated.

Sometimes, you just have to shift your focus to other things and try not to get caught up in situations you can’t control.

Enjoy time away from work

People often let work stress gnaw at them even when away from their desks, creating tension that permeates all their lives. Work life balance is often elusive, and that balance will look different every day, but try to carve out periods of fun.

Take time to go hiking, exercise, and do the other activities you enjoy. Set boundaries such as not checking email after a certain time. Take vacations and avoid working while enjoying time away.

Article Provided By: Arizona Pain

Regular Post

2 Dec

Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Peripheral Neuropathy, Pain Management, Pain Treatment, Carpal Tunnel, CIPN, Carolina Pain Scrambler Center, Greenville South Carolina

16 Gifts For People with Chronic Pain

Chronic pain conditions don’t take a holiday. Even when days are merry and bright, an estimated 100 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of chronic pain. This pain can impact their enjoyment of holidays spent with family and friends, but there are some chronic pain gifts you can give to bring them a little cheer and lessen their pain.

The best chronic pain gifts in 2018

Here’s our best choices in 2018. We give options for splurges, last minute chronic pain gifts, and affordable or even DIY options.

1. A clean house

This seems unglamorous, but the truth is that chronic pain sufferers have difficulty cleaning their homes on bad days. On good days, who wants to clean the house?

Make a coupon book good for one cleaning every month, or hire a local company to come in and clean at the chronic pain patient’s convenience. This thoughtful gift is two gifts in one: a clean house and extra time!

2. Spa days

There are many ways to pamper a chronic pain patient. The easiest way is to find a local spa and book them a couple of treatments. Massages, facials, and pedicures are especially relaxing.

Another alternative is to schedule a spa day at home and give them tools that they can enjoy year round. A paraffin wax bath can be purchased online, or you can create one at home. The heat of the wax can relieve pain in the muscles and tendons, but if it’s cooling for painful joints and inflammation you need, a cooling mitten may be a good gift. Run a hot bath with Epsom salts and relaxing essential oils, then chill the mittens for muscle relaxation and joint pain relief at the same time!

3. A delicious dinner

If the foodie in your life happens to suffer from chronic pain, there are useful kitchen gadgets to help make cooking tasks easier.

OXO Good Grips tools have padded, ergonomic handles that are easier for arthritic hands to operate. Additionally, a good jar, can, and bottle opener can make all the difference for a cook with chronic pain, as can a comfortable kitchen mat.

4. Video games

This may seem counterintuitive: buying a video game for a chronic pain patient when most doctors recommend more movement? These are not your father’s videogames. Nintendo and Playstation have video games that promote movement, such as Wii Sports, Wii Fit, Dance, Dance Revolution, and others.

For young kids suffering from chronic pain or other conditions that might make regular sports painful or dangerous, these games can help them stay active while still qualifying as a fun gift!

5. Adaptive equipment

Got a golfer on your list? If he or she has limited their tee time due to chronic pain, consider getting them special golf grips to help. These grips are larger and have extra nubs and grippy material so that the golfer can use less strength. For arthritic hands, this can be a way to stay in the game.

In addition, braces and other supportive gear for sports such as gloves, wraps, insoles, and compression socks and braces may not be exciting gifts, but if they help chronic pain patients stay active they will be welcomed!

6. Gardening tools

Being outside in nature is therapeutic and soothing, elevating mood and administering a daily dose of vitamin D. Some chronic pain patients are unable to tend their plants. Look for adaptive tools and seating options for the avid gardener, or offer to build them a raised bed for easier access.

7. Jewelry

Many chronic pain patients have abandoned the idea of jewelry long ago. Rings and bangles won’t fit over painful joints, and earrings and necklaces are impossible to fasten.

A Jewelry Helper accessory kit can handle those necklaces and earrings with ease. This kit helps adapt bracelets and necklaces with magnetic clasps and also includes a “hooker” that helps with fastening necklaces, closing zippers, and buttoning buttons. You can also purchase individual kits to adapt favorite necklaces to magnetic clasps, or visit a jeweler and have them adapted for you.

8. Clothes

Along with adaptive jewelry comes adaptive chronic pain friendly clothing. This can be anything that doesn’t have a million tricky buttons, clasps, or zippers. A pair of luxurious gloves or a scarf provides soothing warmth in cold weather, or try a beautiful, fluffy robe and slippers for comfort at home.

Winter is a time of gorgeous knits, and easy dressing needn’t mean unfashionable dressing. On Etsy alone there are hundreds of handmade sweaters for all ages and styles.

9. Subscriptions

Sometimes chronic pain is debilitating, and one of the best chronic pain gifts for the person who is suffering is a good distraction. With a subscription to Netflix or Hulu they can stream movies and TV shows instantly.

For the literary minded, Tailored Book Recommendations will ship books directly to a gift recipient’s door every quarter or send customized PDF recommendations. The books are chosen based on previously enjoyed books, with an expert book recommender assigned to them.

Audible also provides audiobook subscriptions for those who love listening to their books. Magazine subscriptions can be another excellent monthly present that lasts all year. Look on Amazon for deals and order multiple subscriptions to keep them in reading material all month long!

Also consider ___-of-the-month clubs. The sky’s the limit for these, the ultimate in last-minute Christmas gifts. These are designed to be given as gifts, so the majority of them come with printable gift cards (no extra card purchase necessary!). From beer to bacon to bagels, there is something for everyone.

10. Time

Perhaps the biggest challenge for a chronic pain patient is the feeling of isolation. If you are not the one suffering, it can be difficult to understand what they are feeling. Chronic pain patients have rates of depression that are triple the general population. This depression can trigger a vicious cycle of pain, withdrawal, and more depression.

Give your time as a gift. Don’t just text or call. If it is convenient for the chronic pain patient, visit in person with lunch, a movie, a game, or just a cup of tea. Go for a walk, sit in the sun, or take a trip to the store to browse or for necessities. Make this visit a regular occurrence throughout the year, and make sure that you are no trouble.

Some chronic pain patients miss entertaining and may want to make snacks to serve, but others may prefer to go out. Let them decide, then give them your heart and your ear for an afternoon. The benefit of this gift will extend to giver and recipient.

Last-minute chronic pain gifts

If find yourself scrambling for last-minute gifts, not to worry. Quick and easy chronic pain gifts can be found many different places this time of year. With a little ingenuity you can finish up your list in time for the holiday! Here’s some of our favorite ideas.

16 Thoughtful Chronic Pain Gifts For Your Loved Ones | PainDoctor.com

11. Grocery store gift baskets

Christmas gifts from the grocery store offer a bonus: you can tackle weekly grocery shopping while picking up a few last minute gifts. Here are some ideas for themed gift baskets you can put together in the store:

Coffee and chocolate: Select organic coffee, flavored syrups, a couple mugs, a tin of hot chocolate mix, and some seasonal marshmallows.
Cheese and wine: Not all grocery stores carry wine, but if they do, head to the gourmet section of the deli and pick up a few different kinds of cheeses and meats (like coppa). Add gourmet crackers, a little fig jam, a bottle of wine, and perhaps some festive cheese knives or spreaders if your grocery has a Christmas gifts section.
Fruit: Choose only seasonal, colorful fruit (think citrus and pomegranates, or perfect seckel pears). Wrap in a basket with a beautiful red bow.

Likewise, many grocery stores have a small housewares section. You could also put together a cupcake baking set with muffin tins, cupcake liners, and a potholder. Include your favorite cupcake recipes.

Have multiple gifts to buy? Get a dozen Mason jars and find a great recipe for cookie mix in a jar or pancake mix in a jar. Spend an hour or two creating a dozen last-minute Christmas gifts for teachers, mail carriers, or as hostess gifts. For gluten-free folks, make your own gluten-free flour mix that substitutes cup-for-cup for all-purpose flour, or find a similar mix in the natural food section.

12. Experiences

How did people survive last-minute Christmas gift shopping before the internet? The internet makes gift shopping possible even up to Christmas day. Think outside the box for things that aren’t things and don’t need to be shipped. Some of the best options are experiences, from sites like Living Social and Groupon.

Living Social and Groupon have museum tickets, balloon rides, stained glass classes and more, all ready for purchase, most deeply discounted, and all easy to give as gifts. Sign up to get notifications in the area where your gift recipient lives (you can always change this later), then watch the daily deals roll into your inbox.

13. Charitable contributions

For the person who has everything, sometimes the best last-minute Christmas gift is giving to a charity in their name. Making a contribution to a charity they support is also an excellent gift.

You can also find a great cause or product that your gift recipient might love and contribute in their name on sites like Kickstarter. Then, when the Kickstarter is funded, they get the reward. Discover different Kickstarter projects, choose a reward level, contribute, and then write a card, telling your recipient what they will be getting.

14. Customized photo projects

Office supply stores offer a plethora of last-minute gift ideas for nearly everyone on your list. They also usually have a wide assortment of products that can be customized with photos.

Make a calendar, mug, or t-shirt with family photos. These require a bit more effort and usually a 24-hour lead time (at least), so you cannot wait until the very last minute, but they are an option for a more personal gift if you have a couple days.

15. Journals and calendars

Reflection can be so important with chronic pain. Consider buying your loved one a journal to capture their thoughts or a calendar to organize their lives.

These come in every theme and price point you can imagine. Pair a leather-bound journal with a high-end writing instrument and you have a luxurious, last-minute gift.

16. Gift cards

If all else fails, many grocery and retail stores offer fee-free gift cards to stores and restaurants. It may not be the most personal gift you have ever given, but it will work in a pinch!

If you know a bit more about where they buy their medications or chronic pain supplies, consider buying them gift cards for their favorite pharmacy, Costco, or Target. They’ll appreciate the help.

Article Provided By: Pain Doctor

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27 Nov

Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Pain Management, Pain Therapy, Pain Treatment, Carolina Pain Scrambler, Greenville South Carolina

Thanksgiving with Chronic Pain

The holidays bring with them visions of turkey-laden tables, sugar plum fairies, tables set with all kinds of pumpkin goodies, and chilly nights spent by the fire with a warm beverage. However, some doctors say that all the celebrating, along with the stress and disrupted routines, can worsen feelings of chronic pain. Social worker Patricia Fennell says: “Holidays act like a lightning rod where all the physical and social concerns around chronic illnesses get really highlighted.” If you’re preparing for Thanksgiving and suffer from chronic pain, here’s what you should know. Below are also some healthier food blogs you can go to for holiday meal inspiration.

Can the holidays worsen chronic pain?

Even those who, for most of the year, barely exhibit symptoms of chronic pain and related conditions may find themselves taxed beyond their limit during the holidays. Outside the holiday months, chronic pain patients may scrape by. They may spend energy on working, chores, and other basic life tasks. And, in that time, socializing fall by the wayside because they simply don’t have the energy.

During the holidays, however, hibernating may become less possible. People throw parties, dinners, and other events that require effort to prepare for and attend, Fennell says. People with chronic pain often don’t have that extra effort to spare. Fennell adds:

“Most of the time (people with chronic pain) don’t look sick. When illness flares up, their pain is invisible. Or they have bone-numbing fatigue, so bad that they can’t take a shower and go to the store in the same day. There’s a cultural misperception that says you’re not sick unless you look sick. They need to make their illness visible by talking about it.”

Here are a few ways to manage chronic pain as you prepare for Thanksgiving and throughout the holidays.

1. Be honest

Fennell recommends asking for what you need and being upfront about your limits. If headed to a party, for example, let the host know in advance if you’ve been experiencing pain or fatigue. Tell that person that you may only be able to stay for a few hours, and request that chairs be made available in case you need to sit.

Also, be open to asking for help. WebMD gives the inspiring story of a woman named Rosalind Joffe living with multiple sclerosis and ulcerative colitis who still managed to throw a holiday party for 22 people. Joffe wasn’t a superwoman, one of those rare souls who manage to live with health conditions while never skipping a beat. Instead, she asked for help.

Joffe began planning for the Thanksgiving dinner months in advance, creating a menu and asking people to bring specific dishes. She hired people to clean so that concern would be off her mind. The day before the dinner, a friend arrived to help arrange table settings. She assigned relatives various tasks ranging from serving dinner to helping with clearing the table.

Joffe says that although at times hosting the large gathering was a challenge, avoiding the dinner and not inviting friends and family into her home to enjoy the holiday would have made her feel worse. Joffe tells WebMD:

“What I’ve learned is if I ask for help in advance, even with my own family, people don’t feel put upon. They feel like they’re a part of the event.”

2. Get sunshine

To complicate matters of chronic pain around the holidays, fall and winter months can be linked to episodes of depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder, which may exacerbate chronic pain symptoms.

To alleviate wintertime blues, try opening all your blinds to let in as much sunlight as possible and trimming any tree branches that block light from entering windows, recommends the Mayo Clinic. If you work in a dark office, consider ways to sit closer to a window or walk outside when possible to experience daylight.

Experiment with eating lunch outdoors or taking walks outside during the day. Exercise is believed to alleviate the holiday blues, and breaking a sweat is recommended by experts as one way to manage chronic pain during the holidays.

3. Rest

With so much on your plate, the temptation can be to go, go, go. However, constant movement can lead to burnout for anyone, but particularly for those experiencing underlying conditions such as chronic pain or fatigue. Take rejuvenating baths, lay on the couch with a good book, and try to get eight solid hours of sleep each night.

Balancing activity with rest will help you find a way to partake in holiday festivities while reducing chronic pain symptoms.

4. Prioritize

With an ever-growing to-do list, it may feel sometimes like you’ll never get it all done. And that’s true. The to-do list will never end. So don’t worry about accomplishing every item. Pick the most important things, those that you can’t get off your mind, and then save the rest for another day.

If you have a flare-up or feel really tired one day and fall behind on the list, don’t worry. The important things will get done. Ask for help if needed.

5. Eat healthy

Sure, you may indulge, but continuing to eat an abundance of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains during the holidays is critical to managing chronic pain. For conditions such as diabetes, eating healthy is essential while eating the wrong kinds of food could worsen the disease, according to WebMD.

With other conditions, such as fibromyalgia or lupus, eating too much pumpkin pie will likely not make the disorder worse, but it could worsen symptoms.

6. Go to healthy food blogs for guidance

A hot, home-cooked meal can chase away the winter chill like nothing else. Food blogs are a fantastic source of regular, new recipes. Once you find one you like, you’ve got a constant source of new dishes to try out. Whether you’re trying to liven up your diet or find a new twist on your traditional Thanksgiving meal, there’s a food blog for you.

Some food blogs focus on dishes that are healthy or food-restriction friendly. Maybe you’re trying to cut back to avoid any holiday weight gain. Perhaps you’ve got food allergies or follow a restrictive diet. Whatever the case, if you’re trying to watch what you eat, odds are you’re getting bored of the typical bland “diet” foods. We recommend checking out the following blogs for recipe ideas.

How To Prepare For Thanksgiving If You Have Chronic Pain | ArizonaPain.com

The Picky Eater

The Picky Eater food blog is run by Anjali, who is a Board Certified Health Coach. According to her About Me page, Anjali grew up eating a very health-centric diet full of organics and fresh produce, but her husband grew up eating pizza and fast food. She balanced both lifestyles by cooking healthy versions of her husband’s favorites, resulting in lots of deliciously healthy dishes.

The recipes at The Picky Eater are clear and easy-to-follow, complete with lots of pictures along the way. Additionally, there’s a lot of information about other health topics, such as healthy baking substitutes, information about soy proteins, and tips for enjoying holiday meals without going overboard.

My Darling Lemon Thyme

The food blog My Darling Lemon Thyme is by Emma. Emma is vegetarian, and both Emma and her children have lactose and gluten allergies, so the recipes on her food blog reflect this. She’s got some great information for anyone who’s new to a gluten-free diet. Additionally, she grows lots of the ingredients for her recipes in her own garden, so there’s quite a bit of information about gardening on the website.

If you have food allergies or restrictions, the recipe list at My Darling Lemon Thyme could be a goldmine for you. Each recipe is followed by a description like gluten-free, vegan, lactose-free, fermented, or sugar-free. This allows you to quickly find recipes that fit your specific food requirements.

I Am A Food Blog

I am a Food Blog is run by Stephanie, a self-proclaimed lover of noodles, bacon, potatoes, and breakfast foods. She takes traditional recipes and gives them an unconventional twist, like bacon grilled cheese pizza, or an Asian influence, as with bacon and eggs yakiudon.

The recipes from this food blog are eclectic and playful, and the photos of the completed dishes always look delicious. The end result often leans toward gourmet, but the ingredients and directions are simple and straightforward.

The Comfort of Cooking

The Comfort of Cooking food blog focuses on fresh and frugal recipes, and there is a huge selection to browse. If you’re trying to watch what you eat, check out the diabetic friendly or light and healthy sections of the recipe index.

There are also lots of tips and tricks and how-tos, if you’re a bit unsure in the kitchen. The recipes here are comfort foods or homemade versions of popular sweets. There are plenty of options to keep you cooking for a long time.

How Sweet It Is

Jessica’s How Sweet It Is food blog revolves around things that taste good. Some of the recipes here are healthy, and others are decadent. Lots are revised versions of the author’s favorites, like the caramelized shallot bacon gravy made with the same method as her mother’s traditional gravy.

There are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free sections in the recipe index if you’re working with a specific set of dietary needs. Additionally, the author sometimes does lightened versions of classic recipes, like this lightened up fresh green bean casserole.

Top with Cinnamon

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, head for the Top with Cinnamon food blog, which is run by the very young Izy. There are a few savory recipes here, as well as several how-to posts, but the vast majority are baked desserts, muffins, breads, and cakes. Lots of the recipes in the index are accompanied by a short description, like vegan or dairy-free.

Also noted next to many of the recipes is whether or not they contain videos or GIFs (which are animated files or images). These how-to videos and GIFs can be extremely helpful in tackling new recipes. For example, the step-by-step guide to making croissants is accompanied by GIFs illustrating each step, which simplify a rather intimidating recipe.

Food blogs are a great way to liven up your Thanksgiving dinner. There’s definitely something to be said for sticking to the classics, but it’s also fun to mix things up every once in a while. This Thanksgiving, consider adding a few new dishes to your table, even if you just add them to the mix instead of replacing traditional ones.

8. Speak up

Finally, if you need help, or are worried about cooking dinner for eight, or don’t think you’ll be able to stand up all night at Aunt Barbara’s holiday gathering, let people know. Chronic pain is largely invisible to outsiders, and people don’t know how you feel unless you tell them.

Not everybody will accept your limitations, but being willing to ask for help and staying true to yourself will help you avoid pushing too hard. It’s better to prepare and ask for help before you reach the point of exhaustion or frustration to avoid reaching that place in the first place.

Article Provided By: Arizona Pain

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22 Nov

Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Pain Management, Pain Treatment, Peripheral Neuropathy, Carolina Pain Scrambler, Greenville South Carolina

Acute Vs. Chronic Pain

The terms “chronic” and “acute” are used to describe pain. So, what are the differences when it comes to acute vs. chronic pain? The main difference comes down to how long the pain is experienced.

Acute vs. chronic pain explained

A simple way to understand chronic versus acute pain is to remember that “acute” means “severe” and “chronic” means “persisting.” A person can experience pain that can clinically be described by both terms at the same time, or maybe just one. But, in most cases, chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts three months or more according to the National Institutes of Health. Acute pain is severe, but only lasts for a short time.

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain is usually associated with a long-lasting condition, such as a disease. For example, if the pain resulting from a specific injury lasts much longer than the expected time of healing, a doctor would consider the person’s pain to be chronic. With this kind of pain, the pain signals could remain active for weeks, months, or even years.

Examples of chronic pain include:

Chronic pain is not just about the pain itself. Other common symptoms include:

Fatigue
Depression
Anxiety
Irritability
Cognitive issues
Trouble sleeping

According to an article by health economists from Johns Hopkins University printed in The Journal of Pain, the annual cost of chronic pain is as high as $635 billion per year. That is more than the annual costs for cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Learn even more about chronic pain at our chronic pain statistics page.

What is acute pain?

On the other hand, acute pain comes on suddenly and is sharp and sporadic. Acute vs. chronic pain is typified by its duration. Acute pain typically only lasts for a few days or weeks at the most. This type of pain could happen with a(n):

Burn
Cut
Infection
Acute headache
Pulled or sore muscles
Fracture or sprain
Surgery

What should you do if you suffer from chronic pain?

If you’ve determined that you’re suffering from chronic vs. acute pain, it’s time to get help and support. Faster treatment typically leads to better results over time.

Further, chronic pain can be one of the most isolating conditions a person can have. From the outside, people suffering from chronic pain may appear healthy. They may function normally: going shopping, picking the kids up from school, going to work. They may even laugh and smile and seem to have their lives all together.

Privately, though, the story may be different. Chronic pain sufferers often work very hard to not show their struggle in public, holding on until they get home to let their guard down. This is a tough situation for the person in pain, and it can also be tough for their families. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, or know someone who is, here’s what you need to know and what you can do to find relief.

1. Know that the pain is not “all in your head”

Chronic pain sufferers aren’t faking it. They need to be surrounded by people who believe them when they say they are hurting.

2. Understand that there is no miracle cure

Although there are ways to help with chronic pain, from diet to medications to exercise, they don’t always work at the same level each day. There is no one answer for all conditions. Working with a highly-qualified pain specialist can help you find the best treatments for your condition. They can also help reduce daily symptoms. But, for most types of pain, a “cure” isn’t really possible. Your pain specialist will be working as hard as possible to find the most pain relief they can provide.

Unfortunately, this is the major and most impactful difference between acute vs. chronic pain.

3. Understand that some days are better than others

What was possible yesterday may not be possible today. Levels of pain will rise and fall. Allow the chronic pain sufferer to set the pace and duration of activities, and listen to them when they say they have had enough. If you’re in pain, know when you need to back off.

And, if there is a period of time during the day when the pain seems to be less, ask family and friends to accommodate that schedule when possible. Some times you may have more energy in the morning. Or in the afternoon. If they cannot change plans or accommodate you, then be honest about your own availability and re-schedule if necessary.

4. Be open with your family and friends

Sometimes a person suffering may not appear to be in pain. They may have to deal with comments from strangers on how slowly they move or how creaky they seem. On these days, ask if there is anything you can help with, and move at their pace.

If you’re suffering from pain, others may not understand what you are going through. If they are curious, give them information to better explain chronic pain and answer their questions. You don’t have to give more information than you are comfortable sharing, but know that people who know what you are going through are more likely to be understanding.

The most important thing for chronic pain sufferers and their support systems is communication. Keeping those communication lines open is the best way to work together. Chronic pain can be a very difficult condition to live with, for the sufferer and their loved ones, but understanding when things get tough and asking for help can make a big difference.

5. Ask for help

You don’t have to do it all, and there are people who are willing and able to help. Kids can have chores, and your spouse can take over some activities on the days that the pain is intense.

Next, get the outside support systems you need to tackle your chronic pain condition. Talk to your doctor about pain support groups near you to join.

Article Provided By: Pain Doctor

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15 Nov

Pain Management, Pain Relief, Chronic Pain, Pain Therapy, Peripheral Neuropathy, Carolina Pain Scrambler Center, Greenville South Carolina

Travel Tips for People with Chronic Pain

Whether for fun, familial obligations or business, traveling can be exhausting, especially for individuals who live with chronic pain. The stress and tension associated with travel can cause and/or worsen pain symptoms. Taking the time to plan and prepare for the journey can help ease travel anxiety and set the tone for a pleasant journey.

A few tips to help make traveling more comfortable and less stressful include the following:

Planning ahead

Learning as much as possible about the journey ahead is essential to making a smooth transition. Travel details that should be secured include the following:

Mode of transportation and directions
Times of arrival/departure
Detailed information on places that will be visited
Information about room and board (hotels, cruise ships, etc.) regarding elevator access, accessible restrooms, etc.

Another important tip is to travel during times of the year when pain levels are typically decreased. If flares are common in the heat of the summer, a trip during the autumn months may be more comfortable. If crowds are bothersome, avoiding high-peak travel days is a good idea. Also, if possible, planning an extra day at the start of a vacation and an extra day at the end of a vacation to rest and recover is beneficial.

Packing tips

Choose the right luggage
Luggage equipped with wheels can be pushed instead of carried. Using both hands to push bags, rather than pull them, reduces pressure on the hands and shoulders.
Pack light
Packing light is essential, especially if an individual does not have a travel companion. Lifting and carrying luggage can aggravate chronic pain.
Gather health information
A brief medical history along with a list of current medications can be included in a wallet or carry-on bag. Individuals should include contact information of their health care provider(s) and any health insurance information that may be required if a medical situation arises.
Pack medications
Individuals should pack more medication than required in case of an emergency (usually an extra 3-4 day supply is sufficient). Medication should always be in their original pharmacy containers and packed in a carry-on bag. Before traveling, researching pharmacies at the destination is also a good idea in case medication is lost.
Assemble a comfort kit
A comfort kit contains anything that would make the journey more comfortable, such as heat wraps, cold packs, entertaining distractions, etc. Small pillows are great to use behind the back or on a seat. A light blanket is nice for keeping warm and also can be used rolled up for more back or neck support.
Pack healthy snacks
Packing healthy snacks helps individuals avoid the temptation to purchase high priced, high fat and high calorie processed food that is available at most gas stations or rest stops. Reusable water bottles are a cheap and healthy way to stay hydrated; they can be refilled at drinking fountains along the way.

During the trip

Individuals with chronic pain should be honest with their travel companion(s) about their physical limitations. Sitting for long periods is not healthy for anybody, especially individuals with chronic pain. If driving, stopping about once an hour to stretch and walk loosens the joints and increases blood flow. If traveling by bus or train, individuals should choose an aisle seat (if possible) so stretching or walking during the trip is more accessible. Distractions like books, videos or music are also great for long trips (tablets are ideal for this).

Arriving at the destination

Arriving at the final destination is exciting! To make the trip more enjoyable, it is important to ask for help when needed and take advantage of any amenities offered. Certain rental car companies offer amenities specifically for people with pain conditions, such as vehicles with tilt-able steering, adjustable seats and vehicles big enough to easily accommodate wheelchairs or rollators/walkers. While traveling, individuals with chronic pain should remember to maintain a comfortable pace and enjoy the trip! Hospitality specialists and concierge are trained to make sure their guests are as comfortable as possible, so individuals should not be hesitant to ask for assistance.

Article Provided By: PainScale

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13 Nov

Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Pain Management, Pain Therapy, Peripheral Neuropathy, Carolina Pain Scrambler, Greenville South Carolina

Get Better Sleep with Chronic Pain

The importance of a good night of sleep cannot be underestimated. Sleep deprivation has been linked to increased obesity and body fat, a compromised immune system, and serious chronic illness such as diabetes. It has even been used as a torture technique. A full night’s rest is essential to help your body rejuvenate and repair. If you are suffering from chronic pain, a solid rest every night is crucial to helping to manage your pain. Here are ten tips to improve your sleep hygiene to get the shut-eye you need!

How to get better sleep

According to the American Sleep Association, there are some steps you can take to make sure you get the best sleep possible, so that you wake up feeling refreshed, energized and ready to take on the day.

1. Keep the room cool

When you sleep, your body temperature drops. Keep your bedroom cool at night (around 65 degrees) so that you can add blankets to your bed no matter what the season. The drop in body temperature signals to your body that it is time to sleep, and the additional weight of the blankets will promote relaxing, restorative sleep.

2. Go to bed earlier

Just like babies who stay up past their bedtime and then throw fussy temper tantrums, adults can get overly tired and be unable to fall asleep. In addition, adults who stay up late and sleep fewer hours report more negative thoughts and more worry. Going to bed an hour or two earlier can help ease into rest.

3. Stay on schedule

It’s important to maintain the same sleep schedule, day in and day out, even on the weekends, so that your body can get get used to keeping this rhythm. To sleep better, try to go to bed and wake up at the same time (give or take about 20 minutes). It also helps to keep a relaxing pre-bedtime routine, such as a warm bath, soft music or meditation.

4. No naps

There is a lot of debate as to whether or not naps can help or hurt a person’s sleep routine, but the ASA says naps decrease the “sleep debt” that makes it easier to fall asleep at night. So if you’ve napped that day, you’ve increased your odds of having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

5. Minimize clutter

A calm, cool bedroom that is tidy (no messy nightstands!) is welcoming and promotes restful slumber. Remove clutter from the nightstand, clean up the cobwebs, and keep sheets and pillows fresh and clean. Make your environment as comfortable as possible with regard to temperature and noise level. Keep pets out of the bedroom if they’re loud or distracting. Turn off the TV if you keep one in the bedroom, and make sure the room is dark.

6. Turn off screens

A study out of Iowa State University found that minimizing screen time for children has benefits that include a good night’s sleep, better behavior in general, and improved academic performance. Children average 40 hours a week of screen time, and adults even more than that with computer-based jobs.

Turning off all screens a couple hours before bedtime for sleepers of all ages allows the brain to settle down and shift into sleep mode. There are studies that show that the artificial light emitted from computers and televisions can be stimulating, so it makes sense to turn it off when you want to rest. There is a software called f.lux that helps to adapt your computer’s lighting to make it more like the glow of the moon, but play it safe and just shut down altogether.

7. Uni-task the bedroom

We ask our bedrooms to function as more than just bedrooms these days. They are also a home office, a movie theater, and sometimes a workout room. Simplify the bedroom’s function by eliminating all other uses and just focus on sleep and intimacy. It can be hard to relax when we have a desk piled high with papers staring at us from across the room. Move the desk, relocate the treadmill, and make your bed the highlight of the room.

Try to treat the bed as a place just for sleeping so your brain subconsciously associates being in bed with being asleep. Then it can associate other activities with being awake. This means you shouldn’t read, watch TV, or surf the internet while you’re sitting in bed.

Similarly, don’t lie in bed awake for longer than five or ten. Get up and and sit in a chair in the dark to let your mind race in a place that isn’t your bed. Once you feel drowsy, climb back into bed. You can repeat this as many times as necessary. Just avoid any engaging activity that will make it hard for your mind to wind down.

8. Exercise

Exercising in the morning, even just a short walk or brief session of yoga, helps follow the body’s natural rhythms of wakefulness and resting. It also promotes healthy sleep. Exercise relieves tension and irritability and increases energy levels. In an analysis of 70 studies of exercise and fatigue the results were very clear.

“More than 90% of the studies showed the same thing: Sedentary people who completed a regular exercise program reported improved fatigue compared to groups that did not exercise,” says researcher Patrick O’Connor, PhD, co-director of the University of Georgia exercise psychology laboratory, in Athens, Ga. “It’s a very consistent effect.” Avoid exercising in the heat of the day, and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your exercise.

9. Skip the meds

Desperate times call for desperate measures when it comes to chronic pain and sleep deprivation. After weeks of no sleep, you may be tempted to reach for prescription meds. If possible, resist the urge, especially for teens. The University of Michigan found that teens who were prescribed anti-anxiety or sleep medications were up to 12 times more likely to use those drugs recreationally as they got older. If you can use natural remedies like melatonin or teas like chamomile or valerian, try those first.

In some cases, a pain reliever may be necessary to help you relax and ease into sleep. Using natural remedies may help you to sleep after that. As always, even when taking a natural remedy, check with your doctor for any potential drug interactions.

10. No caffeine after noon, and avoid other stimulants

To sleep better, avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages after noon, as well as cigarettes (nicotine) and alcohol. Some prescribed and over-the-counter medications may also make it harder to fall asleep. Discuss this issue with your doctor if you’re having trouble falling asleep.

Get help

If your pain is effecting your sleep, or if your sleep is exacerbating your pain, get help. A pain doctor can help find treatments to reduce pain. Or, they could discuss other sleep modifications you could use. Find a pain doctor in your area by clicking the link below. Or, read more about pillows you can use for neck pain or ways to combat hip pain at night.

Article Provided By: Pain Doctor

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11 Nov

Peripheral Neuropathy, Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Pain Management, Pain Treatment, Carolina Pain Scrambler, Greenville South Carolina

Coping with Neuropathy in Cold Weather

Neuropathy, also called peripheral neuropathy, is a term that describes the type of pain and discomfort caused by nerve damage. It is typically characterized by a feeling of weakness, numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands and feet.

Peripheral neuropathy can be a common side effect of certain chemotherapy treatments, and can develop after surgery (especially for breast or lung cancer). Often, nerve damage is temporary; it will usually get better, but it can take time.

Cold weather poses special challenges for people affected by peripheral neuropathy. Prolonged exposure to the cold causes the body to slow blood circulation to the hands and feet in an effort to preserve the body’s core temperature. The reduced blood flow can intensify peripheral neuropathy symptoms and potentially cause further damage to already affected peripheral nerves. This is of special concern to those who experience their neuropathy pain as a numbness or tingling sensation. Their ability to measure the effects of the cold is compromised since they already experience those physical warning signals that would otherwise indicate a need to get to warmer conditions.

Tips to lessen the pain and lower your risk of further nerve damage:

Wear warm, dry clothing in cold weather.
Protect your hands and feet by wearing thick socks, thick mittens or gloves.
Take intermittent breaks from the cold to reduce your exposure to extreme temperatures.
Limit or avoid caffeine before an outing as it can temporarily cause blood vessels to narrow.
Do not smoke as cigarette smoke can slow circulation.
Limit alcohol use since excessive consumption can lead to vitamin deficiency which can, in turn, damage peripheral nerves.
Incorporate exercise into your routine to improve overall circulation.
Explore comfort measures like massage or use of flexible splints for support.

This information is meant to be helpful and educational, but is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have concerns that you or a loved may be experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, be sure to discuss the issue with your health care team as there are treatments available to help control the symptoms.

Article Provided By: Cancer Care

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