1. Find the Root Cause of the Pain

We feel it is critical to find the root cause of your pain. Rather than taking pain medication to mask your symptoms, we would suggest that you visit a health care provider who will thoroughly investigate the cause(s) behind your pain. It is only in that way that you can address the cause, and not just mask the pain. A comprehensive exam should include a full physical examination, blood chemistry analysis, and other testing as necessary. Finding the true cause puts you in control.

2. Approach Treatment and Prevention Holistically

Once you know the cause of your pain, you will want to approach pain relief and prevention holistically. We believe a visit to one of our Palm Beach Gardens chiropractors and working with our functional medicine team, as well as physical therapy, massage therapy, pediatric care, prenatal and postnatal care teams can provide you with an integrative plan of care that can relieve your pain and help prevent pain from recurring.

3. Exercise and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Exercise can help you lose the extra pounds that may be causing joint pain, back pain, and more. It boosts your circulation, and releases endorphins that can improve your mood and block pain signals. By reaching and maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating strength training, you lessen the chance of injury and increase your stamina.

4. Eat Healthy

Avoid fatty foods, processed meats, sodas, and snack foods because they can all increase inflammation, which is one of the underlying causes of some types of pain. By switching to a nutrition plan filled with healthy cuts of meat and fish, and adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole foods, you give your body the nutrients it needs to combat pain. Eat smart, with meal plans designed especially for your needs.

5. Reduce Your Stress

Stress can exacerbate and even intensify chronic pain and pain related with a variety of conditions. Stress can also cause other unpleasant symptoms, as well. Try guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, massage, and asking for help to reduce your stress and your pain.

6. Get Enough Sleep

This may sound hard, because you lead a busy life. But getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night can help you feel better overall, especially combined with exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction. Try to go to bed at the same time each night, and check to make sure your mattress and pillow are conducive to a good night’s sleep. If you need to, wear a sleep mask and ear plugs to bed to block out light and noise.

Don’t let pain rule your life. By getting professional help and changing some habits, you can manage chronic pain better, and prevent pain caused by injuries or being overweight.