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Common Mistakes that can be avoided when something hurts...

I write this blog especially for people who have chronic pain..but today's post is sage advice for all of us, whether chronic or occasional pain is an issue.  We all experience some discomfort at different points in our lives, and making good choices on how to address this problem can make all the difference in the world.






  • First of all...an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  To that end, it is important to take the best care of yourself every day.  Healthy habits such as exercise, a nutritious diet and avoidance of tobacco products are a good starting point.  The better your overall health, the better you will feel every day.
  • Choose medications wisely.  Try to minimize use of the most potent pain medications (if prescribed) or avoid altogether to eliminate the possibility of addiction.  Be careful never to exceed the amount prescribed. In the case of over the counter medications, keeping your overall health situation in mind when choosing a product.  For instance, what is appropriate for an individual with normal liver or kidney function or someone who does not consume alcoholic beverages is very different than someone who is a regular drinker or has compromised renal or hepatic function. 
  • Keep in mind that many treatments for pain do not come in a medication bottle!  This blog is full of ideas if you don't know where to start.  Hot or cold compresses, massage, and stretching exercises are only a few of the many options available.  For chronic pain, there are even further alternative, such as nerve blocks, TENS units, or one of the many new devices in chronic pain marketplace.  
  • If you have chronic pain, a support system is of great benefit.  This sometimes comes in the form of a caring partner, family or friend.  Support groups are another great resource...ask around in  your community and you might just find what you're looking for!
  • Last but not least, see a pain management or other appropriate  specialist to help you manage your pain, especially the chronic variety. They can order appropriate tests and/or treatments that you can't necessarily access on your own.  
Sources: roundupweb.com; flickr
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