Over 25 million people in the U.S. suffer from chronic pain and over 100 million Americans are living with a chronic illness that undoubtedly involves some degree of pain.

Although we have helped thousands of patients to determine the causes and most effective treatments to reduce their chronic pain, we are committed to helping patients realize that there are some easy ways that they can reduce the intensity of the pain that they experience.

Here are 7 easy ways that researchers have determined can reduce the intensity or severity of chronic pain. In fact, it could be beneficial to try more ways than one to achieve greater results. Of course, only attempt the activities that do not conflict with or hinder any of your other medical conditions.

    1. SLEEP –  Getting enough sleep can be a bit challenging for pain sufferers. Pain can ruin your sleep and losing sleep can cause more intense pain. The key is to reduce the factors that interrupt your ability to rest. Reduce your use of electronics right before bedtime. Having a pre-bedtime routine also helps to signal your body and brain that it’s time to sleep.  Getting 7 to 9 hours of rest is recommended.
    2. MASSAGE – Massage helps to increase blood flow and reduce stress. This could boost your mood and reduce the perception of pain. Less stress can also help you to sleep better.
    3. HYDRATION – Drinking recommended amounts of water will help to flush the toxins out of your body. Nutrients are carried throughout your body to nourish your cells and body systems. When your bodily functions are in better balance, you may discover that your chronic pain is less intense. Try to drink at least 8 – 8oz. glasses per day. That’s the equivalent to 4 water bottles.
    4. MEDITATION – Meditation offers enormous benefits. It can help to reduce your stress and anxiety as well as help you to sleep better. We are still discovering all of the ways that meditation can be beneficial. In fact, the Eco-Institute lists 141 benefits of meditation. What we do know is that people who meditate report feeling happier, healthier, and in less pain.
    5. YOGA – Yoga, once considered an elusive practice, is now recognized by the medical profession for the many health benefits it provides. The American Osteopathic Association suggests that Yoga is connected to both mental and physical benefits. Improved neurological, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and respiratory function all work together to improve health. Reduced pain and discomfort are often associated with such improvements in body function and mental well-being. And yoga can be especially easy with easy chair yoga exercises. Learn more about Easy Chair Yoga with our own Dr. Gupta.
    6. LAUGH – Laughing releases endorphins that in turn helps to reduce pain and the perception of pain. In fact, it is also possible to do laughter yoga. It may seem silly, but the benefits are undeniable. Here is a great example of Laughter Yoga.
    7. PETS – Play with your dog or cat. Most pet owners already know that their beloved furry friend is a cherished companion. However, our pets do so much more. They rely on us and provide a connection that has definitive therapeutic benefits. They are innocent (well, some of them are) living beings that love you unconditionally. The joy of such a connection is, for many chronic pain sufferers, the motivation to forge ahead. In other words, EVERY dog (and cat) is a therapy dog.

So, as you can see, each, of these 7 activities, can do wonders to improve your spirit and your health, while reducing your chronic pain. They are easy to do, despite the fact that they can have a powerful impact on your overall well-being and perception of pain.

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Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists (M.I.S.S.) is a leader in introducing the most advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology for the treatment and management of chronic pain. For over 20 years, M.I.S.S. has been dedicated to serving the Northwest Indiana community with the most progressive and minimally invasive treatments for pain. M.I.S.S. physicians are Board Certified Specialists. M.I.S.S. serves patients throughout Northwest Indiana and neighboring Illinois, (including Munster, Highland, Hammond, Dyer, Schererville, Merrillville, Chesterton, Valparaiso, Lansing, Calumet City, and surrounding cities). To Schedule an Appointment – Call (219) 836-7246. Please review our website disclaimer.