Chronic pain can be unpleasant, making even the most basic activities difficult. If you’re among the countless individuals who suffer from chronic pain, you understand how difficult it may be to wait for a doctor’s appointment. You might be asking yourself what you can do to alleviate your suffering until your visit.
Lucky for you, we’re here to help!
We’ve put together five pain relief strategies to make the wait a little more bearable.
Let’s begin!
Exercise to Alleviate Discomfort
While it may seem counterintuitive, exercise can help to relieve chronic pain.
When you have chronic pain, your body isn’t able to move as much, which can lead to stiffness and further discomfort. By getting active and exercising, you can help to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation which can also lead to improved functionality.
Of course, it’s essential to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. Start with some simple exercises and stretches that won’t further irritate your pain.
Keep in mind that we’re not talking about intense, rigorous exercise here. Just a mild amount of activity such as walking or swimming should be enough to help.
If you have chronic pain, consider adding exercise to your routine. It may help more than you think!
Hot and Cold Therapy
The simple truth is that we don’t all have time to wait for a doctor’s appointment when pain strikes. If you find yourself in this situation, hot and cold therapy can be an excellent way to find relief fast.
For example, if you’re dealing with lower back pain, place a heating pad on your sore muscles to help loosen them up.
On the other hand, if you’re struggling with a headache, applying a cold compress to your forehead can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to find relief is to go between ice and heat therapy. Applying ice reduces inflammation, while applying heat can help to relax the muscles.
To do this, try filling a plastic bag with ice and placing it on the affected area for 15-20 minutes before doing the same with a heating pad for the same amount of time.
Repeat this process as necessary throughout the day to find relief.
Wearable Pain Relief Garments
This is an often overlooked option for pain relief that can make a drastic difference.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish option, the right clothing can assist with pain management. Several of these options can help you to get relief from persistent pain.
For example, compression garments can help to reduce swelling and support weak or strained muscles.
There are also many options for specialty bras that can help to relieve back pain and improve posture. Bras with wider straps and built-in panels for support are common for this.
Consider giving pain relief clothing a shot if you struggle with chronic pain.
Try Over-the-Counter Options
Generally, you’ll want to speak with your doctor about the best treatment for your pain. However, if the pain is more than you feel you can handle, over-the-counter medication may be a quick solution until you see your primary care physician.
There are many over-the-counter options available, including:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Advil)
- Aspirin
Naturally, it’s critical to follow the dosage instructions or ask a pharmacist for advice if you’re unsure about how to safely take your medicine.
Taking advantage of over-the-counter options can help you manage your pain to some extent, helping you to be somewhat more comfortable while you wait for your upcoming appointment with your doctor.
Experiment With Relaxation Strategies
If you have chronic pain, you may have noticed that stress can exacerbate it—which is exactly why it’s why it’s critical to discover methods to relax and reduce stress.
There are several ways to relax your mind and body, which may help with pain alleviation. The following techniques can be beneficial:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Hypnosis
- Meditation
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Massage
Naturally, your experience with pain is your own—which is why it’s best to find a relaxation technique which can accommodate your specific needs. Consult with a qualified professional or online provider if you’re looking for suggestions for your situation, specifically.
Final Thoughts About Pain Relief
These are just a few pain relief tips to help you while you wait for your doctor’s appointment.
Remember, everyone’s situation is unique, so it’s best to find what works for you. However, waiting it out to see your doctor is best. That way, you can get a professional opinion and develop a more comprehensive treatment plan.
If that’s not an option, try the above suggestions to see if they help. There are a plethora of pain-relieving methods available.
In the meantime, stay positive and keep your head up. The appointment will be here before you know it!