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:

 

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.