Person managing everyday aches and pains

How To Manage Inconsistent Pain

Debra Murray

Can Pain That Comes and Goes Be Managed?

Yes. Some days are better than others, but a few daily habits can help you take charge of aches and pains. According to Cleveland Clinic, pain can last a short time and go away when you heal, or it can last for months or years, and eating nutritious foods, drinking plenty of water, getting quality sleep and managing stress may help reduce pain. Cleveland Clinic also notes that it will likely take more than one therapy to find some relief, so think of the steps below as a toolkit rather than a single fix.

Most days you may still feel like a teenager in your mind, ready to get up and go and make the most of your retirement years. Your body just has a way of reminding you that it isn't as young as it used to be, especially after you've pushed yourself to the limit.

How Much Sleep Do I Need to Help With Pain?

Adults aged 18 to 60 need 7 or more hours of sleep, according to the CDC, and that is a good target for anyone whose pain makes mornings harder. Quality sleep is one of the habits Cleveland Clinic lists as a way that may help reduce pain. A relaxing evening routine and a regular bedtime are simple places to start.

What Should I Eat to Support a Pain-Smart Lifestyle?

Build your plate around whole, nutritious foods. The Arthritis Foundation recommends a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fresh fruit, whole grains and lean protein.

Does Exercise Help, Even When It Feels Hard to Move?

Gentle, regular movement is one of the best investments you can make. Cleveland Clinic says physical activity such as walking or swimming, along with strength training, may reduce pain, and the Arthritis Foundation says activities like walking, water aerobics and yoga can help reduce joint pain and improve flexibility, balance and strength. On the days when moving seems impossible, start small and build up as you are able.

How Does Body Weight Affect Pain?

The Arthritis Foundation notes that excess weight puts more pressure on weight-bearing joints and can increase pain. Keeping a weight that is healthy for you takes some of that strain off your bones and joints. If you're unsure what a healthy weight is for you, talk with your healthcare provider.

What Can I Use Directly on a Sore Spot?

At Emu Therapy, we offer a variety of pain relief boosters you can pair with your routine. Our Cool Menthol Therapy can be applied directly to your trouble spot. It can be used alone or layered with Super Blue Stuff OTC or Super White Stuff OTC pain relief cream. Follow the label directions, and check with your healthcare provider about any pain medicine you take.

Frequently Asked Questions About Managing Inconsistent Pain

What is the difference between short-term and long-term pain?

Pain can last a short time and go away when you heal (acute pain), or it can last for months or years (chronic pain).

How much sleep do adults need?

The CDC says adults aged 18 to 60 need 7 or more hours of sleep, with 7 to 9 hours for ages 61 to 64 and 7 to 8 hours for those 65 and older.

Can exercise help with pain?

Cleveland Clinic says physical activity such as walking or swimming, and strength training, may reduce pain. The Arthritis Foundation says walking, water aerobics and yoga can help reduce joint pain and improve flexibility, balance and strength.

Does my weight affect joint pain?

The Arthritis Foundation notes that excess weight puts more pressure on weight-bearing joints and can increase pain.

What can I apply directly to a sore area?

Emu Therapy offers Cool Menthol Therapy, which can be applied directly to a trouble spot and used alone or layered with Super Blue Stuff OTC or Super White Stuff OTC.

Sources

Created using Claude AI.

Edited by Stephen Eastmond.

Cleveland Clinic (Pain Management) — https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21514-pain-management

CDC (Sleep) — https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html

Arthritis Foundation (Tips for Managing Chronic Pain) — https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/4-tips-for-managing-chronic-pain

 

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