Living a healthy life without pain is not just a headline; it is a lifestyle, and it takes effort to be successful. There are several ways to work toward your goal of reducing pain, but it all starts with you. Here are some tips to begin moving toward a more comfortable life.
See Your Healthcare Provider
One of the most important tools in your healthcare toolbox is the healthcare system. It is designed to keep you well. However, if you do not use it to your advantage, nothing will change, especially if you are experiencing pain.
Begin moving toward a healthier life by scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician for an annual exam. From there, move on to other providers based on the results of the assessment.
If you are experiencing pain from a sports injury, a vehicle accident, or life in general, seeing licensed orthopedic physicians should be your next step. You will receive a full workup to determine the best course of action regarding your unique issues and needs. The goal is to work together to find the best outcomes to reduce or eliminate any physical pain you have been experiencing while learning how to strengthen your body.
Pay Attention To Your Posture
How you hold your body directly affects how it feels. If you are constantly slouching, there will be unnecessary pulling in the wrong areas, causing neck and back pain, not to mention changing the way you walk and carry yourself.
Pay attention to your posture, whether walking, standing, or sitting. It takes acts of mindfulness and intention to change an ingrained habit in how you position your body. To begin, try a workout like the one below to strengthen your supporting muscles and make it easier to stand or sit without slouching.
It is important to note that the constant use of smartphones has not been helpful to anyone in regard to holding your body in a positive position. Give your body a break and change the way you hold your smartphone. Set it up on a portable stand at eye level instead of on your lap to avoid craning your neck. If you constantly use your right hand to swipe and scroll, alternate to your left hand to spread the load across your body.
Begin and Keep an Exercise Regimen
After receiving care from your healthcare providers and based on their recommendations for living a better life without physical pain or discomfort, it is time to begin an exercise routine. This will look different for everyone, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Work with your orthopedic physician to determine the baseline of physical activity that is appropriate for you.
Whatever exercise program you decide upon, the most important thing is to start. And if you falter and miss a day or a week, it is essential for your health and recovery to begin again. No matter how many days you miss, as long as your provider has given you the green light to exercise, keep at it. Some studies show that it can take approximately six months to establish a workout habit.
Here are workout ideas to get you started.
- Follow your orthopedic physician’s rehabilitation program and recommendations.
- Join a gym solo or with a friend to have an accountability partner.
- Work out at home with a streaming fitness service.
- Start swimming or water aerobics for low-impact options.
- Begin walking with low weights or speed walking to avoid impact injuries.
- Train for a 5k with a running club.
- Practice yoga to help with core strength, stretching, and mindfulness.
Eat a Healthy Diet
If you are a foodie and enjoy eating out or ordering in more often than you sit down for a home-cooked meal, it is time to adjust your eating habits. Many foods you consume may contribute to pain and discomfort, such as high-processed and low-nutrient foods. These tend to be high in sodium and unwanted fats.
Make a change to your diet by focusing more on anti-inflammatory foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. When your body is inflamed, you feel pain more acutely, and it is harder to go about your day as usual or to stick with an exercise program. Remember that you can still enjoy your favorite restaurant or dessert in moderation.
Change the way you live your life and break free from pain and discomfort starting today. Talk with your healthcare provider to start on a new path toward feeling better and living a healthier lifestyle. Begin exercising and eating better to help manage your symptoms in conjunction with your provider’s recommendations.
