If you were involved in an accident and suffered an injury it can be painful both physically and emotionally. Sometimes after an injury heals there is inexplicably pain that remains. Long-term pain is known as chronic pain and affects many people across the nation. Learning how to manage your pain is paramount in ensuring a good quality of life. Treatment for chronic pain can be costly, so it is important to get an adequate settlement after your accident. Work with a San Mateo County, California motor vehicle accident lawyer to work with an attorney and increase your chances at fair compensation.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is long-lasting pain that can persist for extensive periods of time. It can last longer than you believe it should, even long after your injury has healed. Pain lasting longer than three to six months can be considered chronic pain. It can begin at the time of the accident or appear weeks or even months later. It comes about as a result of inflammation or nerve damage. Chronic pain was difficult to diagnose at one point but medical professionals are now dealing with pain patients regularly.
What Are Common Signs of Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain will be different for everyone who experiences it, but there are some common signs that you may be suffering from chronic pain. Some examples can include:
- Aches in the body
- Headaches
- Burning sensation
- Tingling sensation
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Decrease in range of motion
If you’re experiencing any of the above for extended periods following an accident, it is likely that you are suffering from chronic pain.
What Are the Best Ways to Manage My Pain?
If you have been experiencing long-term pain it can be frustrating. There are ways to alleviate the pain so that you do not have to live in discomfort. The following are steps you can take to figure out the best ways to manage your pain.
Speak with your doctor.
- Communicating with a medical professional is always going to be in your best interest when dealing with an injury and pain. If you describe your symptoms in detail they can look into the best medication to prescribe you to target your pain. In addition, they can refer you to a specialist and order physical therapy and other practices that can work with your medication to increase your comfort.
Look into alternative treatments.
- If medication is not for you or if you haven’t found a medication that works, there are alternative therapies that you can try. Acupuncture has proven to be successful in decreasing patients’ pain in many cases. Massage therapy and hydrotherapy can also target areas of pain to alleviate your suffering.
Focus on your well-being.
- In addition to the previously mentioned treatments, it is important to focus on yourself. Make sure to prioritize getting a good night’s rest, moving your body, meditation, breathing exercises, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and more.
