C.S. Lewis: "Pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world."
Today's quote may have more to do with emotional than physical pain. However, it doesn't matter if you are in physical or emotional pain; God shouts in our pain! I believe God uses our pain for His glory if we let it.
Today, I am ranting.
I am in physical pain! I have a high pain tolerance, but this time, pain has me. I am not sure what I did to hurt my hips. One day, I did an unusual amount of walking; the next morning, I could barely get out of bed. That was approximately six weeks ago, and the pain has continued to haunt me! I finally purchased a walker with a seat because I have difficulty standing and need a seat.
I went to a class that was touring a hospital and, with the walker, fell on my rear end and bruised my tailbone. If it is not one thing, it is another!
How has God used this? I understand better those people who are not as mobile as most. I used to get upset when someone would walk slowly across the street with cars sitting there waiting to move on. I get it now because I am one of those people.
I have friends who live with chronic pain. There are times when the pain is more than they can bear, and they are down for the day. Most of the time, they live through their pain and participate in daily life. My goal is if this pain persists, I will be able to live through the pain!!!
My pain has affected me in several ways. I always hurt and lose my patience with people. If you are one of those people, I am sorry! I am struggling with depression, and I find myself complaining more; if you were one of those people I complain to, I'm sorry. I am having a difficult time keeping my house neat. I have been allowing this pain to control me.
Somehow, I need to figure out how to live my life with this pain and not make people see me coming and say, "Oh, no, there she is," and leave.
What am I doing to help myself?
· I am trying to walk a little every day. So far, I make it a short distance, then the pain is too bad, and I stop.
· I am icing the areas that hurt.
· I take Advil.
· I am working on losing weight.
· I am scheduled to start physical therapy on June 26
· The doctor suggested a Cortisone shot. I have not wanted to have the shot because it raises my sugar. (I am a type 1 diabetic.) I think I am going to call the doctor and get the shot!
Dealing with physical pain can be challenging, but there are various strategies you can employ to manage and alleviate it.
ChatGPT has several suggestions for dealing with pain.
Here are some methods you might find helpful:
Medical and Physical Approaches
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always consult a doctor to identify the cause of your pain and get appropriate treatment.
• Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Prescription medications may be necessary for more severe pain.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise plan to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
• Exercise: Gentle exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help manage pain and improve overall well-being.
• Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can reduce pain and inflammation.
• Massage: Professional massages can help relax muscles and reduce pain.
• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine practice can effectively manage pain for some people.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
1. Rest and Relaxation: Ensure you get adequate rest and avoid activities that may exacerbate your pain.
2. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can support overall health and help reduce inflammation.
3. Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage pain.
4. Proper Posture: Maintaining good posture can prevent additional strain on your body and reduce pain.
Mind-Body Techniques
1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques like mindfulness meditation can help you manage pain by focusing on the present moment and reducing stress.
2. Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help you relax and manage pain.
3. Visualization: Imagining a peaceful scene or focusing on positive thoughts can help distract you from the pain.
4. Biofeedback: This technique teaches you how to control physiological functions, such as heart rate and muscle tension, to reduce pain.
Support and Counseling
1. Support Groups: Joining a support group for people with similar pain issues can provide emotional support and practical advice.
2. Counseling or Therapy: Talking to a therapist can help you cope with the emotional aspects of chronic pain and develop effective pain management strategies.
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This type of therapy can help you change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to pain.
Alternative Therapies
1. Herbal Remedies: Some herbs and supplements, such as turmeric or ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage pain.
2. Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can be used for their calming and pain-relieving properties.
Practical Tips
1. Stay Positive: Maintaining a positive outlook can help you cope better with pain.
2. Pacing Activities: Balance rest and activity to avoid overexertion and worsening pain.
3. Stay Engaged: Engage in activities and hobbies you enjoy and can manage within your pain limits.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or therapy to ensure it's appropriate for your condition.
I hope this was helpful.
Have a great week
I hope two months later finds you in a lot less pain and able to do all the things you love. May the remainder of the summer give you joy instead of pain.