A 2019 survey found that 20.4% of adults suffered chronic pain while 7.4% experienced high-impact chronic pain (which regularly limited work or life activities). These conditions were noted as among the common reasons grownups seek medical attention. Chronic pain and high-impact chronic pain are associated with poor mental health, opioid dependence, and reduced quality of life.
Chronic pain patients usually risk developing more complications, including anxiety or depressive disorder, major depression, suicidal ideation, mood and substance disorders, suicidal attempts, impaired sleep, clinical hypertension, impaired memory and sexual function, and others. However, finding ways to manage chronic pain can help minimize the risk of these issues. Here are five ways to cope with chronic pain.
Use hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)
HHC, a natural derivative found in the cannabis plant, is regarded as a minor cannabinoid. It’s a hydrogenated derivative of delta-9 and delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While HHC can be naturally found in the Cannabis Sativa plant in minimal quantities, it can be synthetically produced by cannabis extracts’ hydrogenation. It can also be made from CBD.
Since the HHC cannabinoid has a structure relatively similar to THC, it may have antioxidative, anti-emic, and anti-inflammatory effects, meaning it can help manage chronic pain and other conditions like insomnia and appetite loss.
Consider physical therapy
A physical therapist combines exercise, heat treatment, and massage to help patients manage chronic pain. To address the cause of chronic pain, they work to ascertain why specific tissues or muscle groups are stiff or weak. Physical therapists design exercises to minimize stress on these parts to reduce pain and enhance a patient’s mobility and capacity to function daily. While physical therapy treatment plans depend on a patient’s condition and situation, they may involve exercise and passive therapy.
Stay physically active
Excess rest for chronic pain sufferers can be more harmful and result in muscle atrophy. This may lead to more health issues, including reduced joint stability, poor posture, and more structural concerns. Staying physically active can help manage chronic pain. Physical activity lowers chronic pain by reducing fatigue, building muscle flexibility and strength, decreasing inflammation, and minimizing pain sensitivity.
This can also help improve sleep, boost mood, and reduce anxiety and depression, all of which are associated with chronic pain. Consult your doctor for recommendations on the best exercises for chronic pain depending on your condition.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is talk therapy for helping persons identify and build skills to alter negative behaviors and thoughts. This helps pain sufferers change their pain awareness and establish better coping skills. CBT provides pain relief in several ways, including changing how patients view pain-related behaviors, thoughts, and emotions, improving coping techniques, and putting the associated discomfort in an improved context. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be combined with other pain management methods, like massage, physical therapy, and medications to treat chronic pain.
Change your diet
Chronic pain often leads to chronic inflammation. Your diet may significantly contribute to a rise in systemic inflammation. Foods rich in antioxidants called polyphenols may have anti-inflammatory effects that help prevent or soothe painful flare-ups. The foods may include most Mediterranean diet staples like whole fruits, mainly all berry types, nuts, whole grains, legumes, and dark green leafy vegetables.
Endnote
Chronic pain lowers the quality of life and causes other health complications. However, implementing these tips can help you cope with chronic pain.
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