Pain can be a product of injury or illness. Chronic pain does not have to be continuous, but it does generally disturb everyday life. The American Chronic Pain Association defines chronic pain as pain that persists a month after the standard recovery period of an injury or illness. The American Pain Foundation estimates that more than 50 million people suffer from chronic pain. Pain management is important in controlling ongoing pain.

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Managing pain can be difficult, but it is possible. Small, easy changes in your daily routine, learning coping skills, and nurturing your emotional needs can all help.

• Find out what is causing your pain
• Keep a journal
• Talk to others about their experiences
• Utilize distraction techniques (e.g. listen to music, read a book, go to the theatre)
• Exercise
• Try mind body therapy (e.g. meditation, hypnosis, guided imagery)
• Practice relaxation (e.g. deep breathing, yoga, acupuncture)
• Cultivate good sleep habits

Read Chronic Pain by Beverly E. Thorn, PhD

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Online Resources

Identify your type of pain
Web MD

10 daily habits to reduce chronic pain
Web MD