Chronic pain is an incredibly complex and highly individualized health condition, and because of this, it can be hard to know how to support someone who is battling a pain issue. You want to be there for your loved one, but how can you give them the support they need?

We don’t pretend to have all the answers, but in today’s blog, we share some tips for how you can support a loved one during their battle with chronic pain.

Supporting Someone Who Has Chronic Pain

There’s no perfect playbook for supporting someone who is working to overcome a chronic pain condition, but as a provider who treats a variety of pain issues, we have a first-hand understanding of what many pain patients are looking for in terms of support. Here are some things you can do to support a loved one with chronic pain.

1. Be Patient – Chronic pain can disrupt even the best laid plans. Instead of getting frustrated or upset at a chronic pain-related problem, strive to have grace and patience with your loved one. It’s not their fault, and they do not wish to be in this position, so don’t take out any anger or disappointment on them. They are probably just as upset if not more at the situation, so be patient with them.

2. Be Adaptable – Your loved one has to adjust their life based on their chronic pain condition and whether or not they’re dealing with a flare up, and you should try to be adaptable too. If they are having a good day and want to grab lunch on a moment’s notice, try to work them into your schedule. If a pain issue changes your plans for a night out on the town, consider offering to bring over dinner or watch a movie from the comfort of the couch. Your loved one will appreciate your flexibility.

3. Be A Source Of Positivity – Chronic pain can be a lot of doom and gloom, so it’s imperative that you are a source of positivity for your loved one. Try to look on the bright side of things and steer the conversation away from the negative when possible. Let them know that the progress they are making or the effort they are putting in isn’t going unnoticed!

4. Just Be There – Sometimes you don’t need to try and solve a problem or focus on the bright side of things. Sometimes all you need to do is be there for someone. Respond to that text message, let them vent to you on the phone or just be present when you are with them. You don’t need to try and solve every problem for them, sometimes you just need to be there for them.

5. Encourage Activity – Chronic pain conditions respond better to activity and exercise than to a sedentary lifestyle, so try to encourage activity when possible. Offer to go for a walk with your friend or keep on them about performing their physical therapy exercises. Movement and exercise will help make muscles stronger and improve overall physical function, which is essential when working to overcome a chronic pain condition.

Your loved one is lucky to have you by their side during their journey with chronic pain, and it’s wonderful that you are looking for ways to better support them. If you want any more tips or have questions about a different pain issue, reach out to Dr. Cohn and his team today at (952) 738-4580.