Physical pain can be intimidating.
Laugh to Keep From Crying
Sometimesdistracting yourselffrom pain is the best way to tolerate it.
Replace the emotions of turmoil, anxiety, and despair with the complete opposite: humor.
“Humor therapy” exists because humor and laughter have proven effects.
While the studies seem more exploratory than conclusive, the researchers tested this hypothesis through several different experiments.
We approached physical therapist Jim Irvin (PT, MPT) for an expert’s opinion.
When I spoke to him, he agreed, “Absolutely laughter and humor can help to reduce pain.
It also provides a great endorphin release.
It also takes the patient’s mind off of their pain.”
For example,visualization reduced chronic pain in this woman’s thumb.
Even if it doesn’t remove the pain, at least it helps distract you from the pain.
You could venture to relax with simple techniques likeprogressive muscle relaxation.
We have some more tips tohelp you relax here.
When you’re in pain, try breathing exercises.
It’s possible you might better tolerate pain by modifying your breathing.
Irwin recommends this simple breathing exercise to relax:
I like the 8-8-8 breathing technique.
Breathe in for 8 counts, out for 8 counts, and repeat this process 8 times.
Sometimes, mental exercises can alter the physical pain you’re facing.
Will it get worse?").
Anticipating pain can be just as bador worsethan actually feeling it.
When you’re in pain, do your best to dim anxiety and dread as much as possible.
How much is it limiting their daily routine?
Are they doing anything that could be making it worse?
In some instances, pain is a natural part of the healing process (especially after surgery).
It is used as a protective mechanism.
So, if I can, I tell them that pain is normal.
If you’re feeling anxious, finding out more information about the pain can lessen the mystery of it.
He also recommends sites likefamilydoctor.organdaap.org.
We’ve also looked at wayshow to find accurate medical information onlineandmedical websites that you could trust.
Be Patient and Wait for the Tincture of Time
Physical pain can drain you of hope.
Even if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that your body can be surprisingly smart and resilient.
It might be possible for your body to heal as time passes.
Keep a little ray of hope alive, even just in the back of your mind.
Remember, it’s possible that the tincture of time might alleviate your pain.
Distract your mind by laughing, and trying visualization and relaxation techniques.
Reduce your anxiety with knowledge, both by educating yourself and talking to healthcare providers.
Stay hopeful and know that it’s possible for your body to heal itself with time.
Illustration by Tina Mailhot-Roberge.
Photos byBowy Gavid Bowie Chan,Nattu,Mandroid, andSeattle Municipal Archives.
