Lying in bed for long periods may actually make the pain last longer because inactivity makes you stiffen up, your muscles and bones get weaker, you don't sleep well, you become lonely and depressed, and the pain feels worse.
Everyday activities like walking, swimming, gardening and dancing can ease some of the pain directly by blocking pain signals to the brain. Activity also helps lessen pain by stretching stiff and tense muscles, ligaments and joints.
Relaxation, meditation, positive thinking, and other mind-body techniques can help reduce your need for pain medication. Drugs are very good at getting rid of pain, but they often have unpleasant, and even serious, side effects when used for a long time.
Somatic movement
Somatic movement exercises have been used to relieve pain and tension, alleviate common musculoskeletal conditions, improve posture and movement and prevent recurring pain and injuries. Generally speaking, exercises are performed slowly and consciously with the intention of focusing on the internal experience of the movement rather than on external appearance or the results of the movement. Our HealthHelpers practitioners can introduce you to exercises that you can practice in your home to manage your pain.
Self-help techniques
There are several simple self-help techniques that can relieve pain which our HealthHelpers practitioners can teach you.
Here is a link for a technique for a stiff neck.
Stretching exercises
If you have chronic pain in your lower back or neck, stretching can relieve tension and stiffness. HealthHelpers practitioners can give you some equipment-free stretches which can improve overall mobility and facilitate proper movement.
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