Pain management isn’t just important because of the role it plays in keeping people out of hospitals and off medications; it’s important because it plays an important role in their quality of life. In fact, quality of life is one of the biggest reasons that healthcare professionals advocate for effective pain management, so patients can stay active and enjoy the things they love while they heal. Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to find treatments by using Google to find the best pain management clinic Toronto, nonetheless, it is important to educate oneself on the importance of pain management. Here are some more reasons why pain management is important to your overall health and well-being.
Why pain management is important
What Exactly Is Chronic Pain?
Many Americans suffer from chronic pain, a condition where patients have persistent and long-term discomfort. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that as many as 100 million Americans are affected by chronic pain. Unfortunately, there are no definitive tests to diagnose chronic pain and most health care providers lack training in diagnosing and treating it. And while prescription drugs can provide some relief for certain types of chronic pain, they can also cause serious side effects and lead to drug dependence or abuse.
Effects on Physical Health
Because chronic pain can be exhausting, it can take a toll on your physical health. People in constant pain often have trouble sleeping and many also suffer from depression, which affects their mood and mental well-being. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, see your doctor to get treatment—and remember that it’s OK to ask for medications that help reduce your discomfort. Many people fear taking prescription pain meds because they think they may become addicted; but if you have medical supervision (and regular checkups), addiction isn’t usually an issue. In fact, one study found that people who regularly take opioids for noncancer related chronic pain are at a low risk of addiction compared with those who receive other types of medication or no treatment at all.
Effects on Emotional Health
Mental health plays a huge role in determining how chronic pain impacts your day-to-day life. Research shows that stress and anxiety make pain significantly worse, while positive emotions or spirituality can help with pain tolerance. Being aware of your emotional well-being and setting aside time to relax and feel good are crucial components to managing chronic pain long term. Always remember: it’s okay to ask for help. All kinds of people (therapists, support groups, counsellors) exist who can help you manage your mental health when it comes to chronic pain, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need it. Medication isn’t always necessary—it just depends on how severe your symptoms are.
Effects on Relationship Dynamics
One of the most overlooked effects of chronic pain is its impact on a person’s relationships. The quality and stability of all relationships are affected, including those with family, friends, and romantic partners. And while these dynamics may be challenging at times, they do not mean that you have to suffer alone; however, if you feel like pain is destroying your life or relationships it’s important to seek professional help before things get worse. Developing a strategy for how you will communicate and handle conflicts with those close to you can be an important factor in managing your emotional health during periods of chronic pain. Also be aware that oftentimes when partners show empathy toward their loved one it increases their ability to cope more effectively with their own distress; hopefully improving communications between all parties involved.
How To Treat Chronic Pain Effectively
Treating chronic pain can be a challenge for patients and physicians. Achieving chronic pain management goals can help prevent worsening of chronic pain, improve patient functioning, and reduce health care costs associated with treating chronic pain. Treatment of chronic pain should incorporate approaches that are effective in improving outcomes as well as individualising treatment to meet patient needs and preferences. An important part of therapy involves education on how to manage stress, improve sleep hygiene, learn active coping strategies (i.e., physical activity), and become self-reliant by focusing on tasks of daily living (activities of daily living or ADLs). Although medications are an important part of therapy to treat opioid addiction and dependence, strategies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) provide additional support in managing painful symptoms associated with withdrawal.
