Chronic pain can be debilitating and significantly reduce a person’s quality of life. People with chronic pain who suffer for prolonged periods commonly experience other psycho-social symptoms like depression, anxiety, insomnia, sexual dysfunction and even substance abuse.
The painful cycle continues as the person’s ability to function diminishes and their social interaction depletes as they retreat into their world of pain. This in turn reduces their physical activity and their health and wellbeing is affected, often worsening symptoms.
When pain peaks, sufferers may use counterproductive coping strategies that involves socially withdrawing, taking more pain medication or drinking alcohol.
At this point it is very important for the person to acknowledge that this is not a long-term coping strategy and that without professional intervention their mental and physical health is at risk. By engaging a holistic team of professionals who can support both the physical and mental components, pain sufferers can start to employ more effective coping strategies and re-engage in everyday life.
The team of Accredited Exercise Physiologists at Northside Allied Health are trained is managing chronic pain and provide their clients with customised exercise programs to help alleviate pain through restored fitness, improved muscle tone, mobility and endurance.
Exercise Physiologists can also teach pain distraction techniques like breathing, muscle relaxation and mindfulness through exercise. These distraction techniques combined with improved fitness and physical wellness may help pain sufferers to re-engage in everyday social and leisure activities imperative to reducing pain and restoring quality of life.
So remember, we are here to help- don’t suffer in silence. For more information on Chronic Disease, visit this page.