Is the heartache of daily aches and pains reaching unbearable levels? If so, searching for an emotional and physical salve is a must.
As adults get older, many have to deal with the inconveniences of chronic pain. This type of pain is defined as pain that lasts for three to six months or longer or pain that returns from time to time.
Luckily, there are strategies and treatment methods that can bring relief. Here are five ways seniors can lead pain-free lives.
Choose a mobility aid wisely
People become less stable as they age, and they often require some form of support, especially mobility aids. There are plenty of benefits to using a mobility aid. For starters, they enable seniors to walk for longer distances, while also reducing the risk of potentially devastating falls. With these benefits in mind, seniors lead more independent, worry-free lives.
However, choosing the right mobility aid is critical. Standard walkers may cause undue stress on the body, which is why a more upright version, like the The Perfect Walker, is an ideal resolution. These models reduce hunching or leaning by keeping the body vertical, which helps curb chronic pain.
Look for ways to stay active
Though the thought of exercising when grappling with chronic pain may feel unbearable, being inactive can exacerbate existing chronic pain. Lack of movement can worsen muscle and joint stiffness, and it can also reduce blood circulation.
There are plenty of reasons to spruce up your exercise routine. Most importantly, routine walks around the block or trips to the gym can help you lead a pain-free life in the long-term. Being active keeps your muscles strong, joints limber, and your heart strong. And the good news? Seniors can partake in a wide range of activities. Some activities best suited for seniors for with chronic pain include:
- Walking
- Low-impact workouts like yoga or pilates
- Swimming
- Chair yoga
Reduce stress
While chronic pain can stir feelings of hair-pulling stress, this stress can actually catalyze a vicious cycle and worsen existing chronic pain. In cases when you’re unsure of how long your pain will last, stress levels can spike, restarting the cycle once again.
For this reason, reducing stress is critical for seniors. Actively engaging in stress-reducing activities and learning how to relax can help manage chronic pain and enhance well-being. Seniors can partake in any number of relaxing activities, such as meditation, yoga, arts and crafts, and musical activities.
Attend physical therapy
Physical therapy is not just for athletes. It can also be beneficial for older adults. During these sessions, therapists target areas affected by chronic conditions or injuries to promote healing.
Depending on your pain, any number of treatments may be appropriate, such as massage, hot/cold treatments, and passive range of motion. Regular physical therapy may help you see great improvement over time.
Try massage therapy
If your pain is localized, massage therapy may help you find relief. Muscles in the affected region often tense up, which makes the pain worse. Many seniors find massage therapy to be useful, and some turn to chiropractic care for management as well.
Before you go
Remember, curbing chronic pain is a journey that you don’t need to take alone. Don’t be afraid to consult with professionals, medical or otherwise, and be sure to consult with your doctor about ways of living a pain-free life.
