How to Stay Active this Fall without Aggravating your Chronic Pain
For many of us, Fall is a time to enjoy bonfires, stargazing, long leaf-peeping drives through the Western North Carolina mountains, leisurely hikes and more. Unfortunately, chronic pain can often get in the way of these plans. Today, your pain specialists at our CPC pain clinic Hendersonville site (locations also in 10 other convenient Western North Carolina towns) are sharing some tips to keep that pain from ruining your Fall fun.
Listen to Your Body
Nobody knows your body better than you. Before you head out the door to go for that bike ride or camping trip, check in with yourself. Ask yourself the following questions:
How would you rate your pain compared to a normal day?
Can you bring someone along on your activity in case your pain gets triggered?
How are your stress levels? Is this activity likely to decrease or increase your stress?
When is the last time I got out and enjoyed some fresh air? Time spent in nature is reported to offer a boost in general health and well-being, among many other benefits.
Choose an activity based upon your answers. Do you need something slow and soothing? Try a stroll in a local park or nature trail (you can't beat Rhododendron Lake Nature Park if you’re in the area). Do you need something with a little excitement but not too hard on the knees? Try a bike trail!
Be Proactive
There are many ways to prevent aggravating your pain that begin before you even set foot out the door. Whether you are battling arthritis, lower back pain, chronic headaches or anything in-between, we encourage you to be proactive. For example,
Stretch before you go for your hike, bike ride or walk
Stay hydrated
Use high-quality shoes with good arch support
Consider trying assistive technology such as trekking poles, which improve balance, protect joints and increase endurance
Be mindful of maintaining proper posture
Sometimes small actions done consistently over time allow you more freedom to enjoy bigger actions with less pain. Be sure to also consult your doctor to get more specific tips and tricks that apply to your unique condition.
When in Doubt, Go With Low-Impact
Your safest bet when it comes to enjoying the Fall colors without aggravating your chronic pain is to choose low-impact activities. Low-impact refers to the effect an activity will have on your joints. Some popular examples of these types of activities that can be done outdoors include:
Canoeing or Kayaking
Frisbee golf
Fishing
Bird watching
Taking your four-legged friend for a walk
Make Sure You Have FUN!
People often think of pain as a purely physical sensation. However, it is now accepted that pain does not exist in a social vacuum. Finding joy in your day-to-day life is an essential part of your journey to better health and a lower pain. Whatever activity you choose to participate in this Fall, make sure it’s one that puts a smile on your face. (For more information on the mind-body connection with regard to pain, check out our blog on chronic pain and mental health.)
Pain Clinic Hendersonville
At Comprehensive Pain Consultants of the Carolinas, we aim to improve your quality of life by listening to you, creating custom treatment plans, and educating you as we learn more about your conditions. We’re invested in your sustained relief from pain. Our treatment plans are minimally invasive and conservative. We also provide, as a part of our team, psychologists who offer counseling and education to assist you in reaching your goal for an optimal life! Call today to make an appointment at one of our 11 convenient Western North Carolina locations.