September: Pain Awareness Month

Pain is our body’s way of alerting us that something is wrong. Nearly 100 million Americans experience chronic pain, which can be debilitating. Pain can fall under two categories:

Acute pain occurs suddenly due to an injury, accident, or medical procedure and doesn’t last longer than six months.

Chronic pain is ongoing discomfort that lasts longer than 6 months. It may be constant or can come and go. Chronic pain is commonly caused by an old injury or illness and can be linked to certain conditions such as:

  • Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Migraines
  • Nerve Damage

Home Healthcare can assist with pain management for chronic and acute conditions. The Home Healthcare team can work with your physician to create a treatment plan that works for you. Home exercise plans can bring some chronic pain sufferers relief. If you are experiencing acute pain from a surgical procedure, our Home Healthcare nurses can help you manage your post-surgical medications and care for your surgical wound(s). Ask your physician for a referral to JAA Home Healthcare to assist you with your pain management needs.

TIP:Deep breathing three times a day is proven to help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which in turn reduces pain.

Sources: National Academies Press; Cleveland Clinic