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Non-Medical Pain Management Interventions
(Adapted from the Pain Resources Network "Patient
and Family Guide to Pain and Symptom Management")
There are a number of lifestyle and complementary
medicine approaches that can help patients achieve pain relief,
either in combination with, or separate from, the use of pain medications.
Always consult your health care team before undergoing any non-prescribed
therapies, however.
Lifestyle Strategies
- Stay positive. The mind has a profound effect on the
body.
- Get plenty of rest. This nourishes your immune system.
- Get a comfortable mattress. This minimizes joint and
muscle stress and fatigue.
- Get up and move as much as you can during the day.
- Focus on what you can do, not on what you can't do.
- If you still have pain, call or tell your nurse, doctor,
or any other member of your health care team.
- Don't give up. There are many options available if your
current regimen isn't effective.
- Remember: you deserve - and your body and spirit require
- adequate pain relief.
Complementary Medicine Approaches
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Meditation
- Hypnotherapy
- Heat and/or Ice Treatments
- Dietary Changes and Supplements
- Psychological Counseling
- Support Groups
- Prayer
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