Managing chronic pain can be challenging, but for many people this sentiment holds true now more than ever. We’re living in uncertain times as we continue to try to contain the spread of COVID-19, also known as the novel coronavirus. This virus is challenging for the entire world, but as we learn more about it, it’s clear that it is especially problematic for certain groups of people and those with underlying health conditions. Unfortunately, there is a lot of crossover between the groups who are susceptible to significant complications from the virus and those who live with chronic pain on a daily basis.

This is not meant to be an overly grim outlook on our current situation, but we should proceed with caution as we navigate the next few weeks and months. There is good news though, because we’re learning more about the virus every day and how to best care for those who contract the condition. However, we want to help explain how chronic pain patients should try to proceed these next few months to both stay safe and manage their chronic condition.

Chronic Pain and Coronavirus

For starters, patients with chronic pain need to be especially cognizant about the social distancing order, especially if your chronic condition affects your immune system or your respiratory system. Those with immunodeficiancies and lung problems can really have an issue overcoming the virus, and many of those who have succumbed to the virus have these types of underlying health conditions.

So with your social distancing in mind, follow these tips to help control your chronic pain and reduce your risk of contracting the coronavirus.

1. Exercise – You still need to find ways to exercise even if you can no longer go to the gym. Get creative about how you exercise and strengthen key muscle groups. Going for a run or a walk is still fine in most parts of the US so long as you try to stay further than six feet from others you encounter. Otherwise, dust off the treadmill or look up some online yoga exercises that you can perform in the comfort of your home. Just because you’re self-isolating doesn’t mean you get to be lazy, because that will make it harder to control your chronic pain.

2. Mental Health – Social distancing does not mean that you need to isolate yourself. Talk with family members regularly or set up recurring conference calls with friends. Finding some ways to take your mind off your pain or the state of the world will do wonders for your mental health, and that’s important for your physical health as well. Find healthy outlets for your mind.

3. Learn – Now is a great time to take up a new hobby or invest in a new skill. If you’re working from home, you may find some extra time on your hands if you’re no longer commuting for your job or your hours have been cut. Don’t just use this time to watch Netflix and lay on the couch. Your body will feel more engaged by new activities and will take your mind off your pain, which is good for your health. Come out of this quarantine with one new skill your proud of, and it may even help your pain condition.

4. Connect Virtually – If you’re having questions about your condition or how to best manage an issue, see if you can connect with your physician for a virtual visit. Some clinics are still open, but many physicians and physical therapy departments are offering telemedicine options to help see patients more easily. There are still ways to connect with your physician, even in the wake of a pandemic.

Keep these four tips in mind, and really invest in your physical and mental health these next few weeks and months. It may seem challenging, but you may be able to come out of this with a better grip on your chronic condition than you had before. For help with any of this, reach out to our office today.