12 Steps to Include in Your Battle w #Chronic Pain
The first book I ever read on pain was “Mastering Pain” by Dr. Richard Sternbach. Here are 12 steps to follow:
1. Accept the fact of having chronic pain.
2. Set specific goals for work, hobbies and social activities toward which you will work.
3. Let yourself get angry at your pain if it seems to be getting the best of you.
4. Take your analgesics on a strict time schedule, and then taper off until you are no longer taking any.
5. Get in the best physical shape possible, and keep fit.
6. Learn how to relax and practice relaxation techniques regularly.
7. Keep yourself busy.
8. Pace your activities.
9. Have your family and friends support only your healthy behavior, not your invalidism.
10. Be open and reasonable with your doctor.
11. Practice effective empathy with others having pain problems.
12. Remain hopeful!
