Alternatives to medications

[Guest guest]

I had to deal with chronic pain for many years before I found a

doctor who would manage my chronic pain with medications.

During those years, and even now, I used hot baths and showers when

the pain overwhelmed me. Then I would dress warmly, two pairs of

thick socks, etc., crawl into bed, bury myself in the blankets and

relax, usually falling asleep for one to four hours. We do have a

whirlpool tub now, but for me it is not the jets, but the heat that

is the key to relaxation from the muscle spasms due to pain.

Relaxation is a key component to handling chronic pain and the

muscular discomfort it causes. When I'm exhausted, tired, hurting,

uncomfortable, a good recliner and a book, or a good TV movie can

help restore me to working condition.

Now that I do have pain relief medications, when the pain

increases, I take the next dose and lay down for twenty to thirty

minutes to give it time to take effect as well as time for me to

relax.

I find that gardening takes my mind off of the pain, even though

gardening can increase the actual pain I'm feeling. It's a mind

over body thing. Find something you like doing and then find time

to do it. Give yourself a chance to concentrate on something you

like instead of the pain you are in.

I'm not up on aroma therapy, but I do know that I have one favorite

brand of soap that gives me a relaxed but invigorating feeling.

It's very aromatic...but masculine...can't stand those feminine

perfumes! Sorry, ladies.

Ray in Virginia