It’s hard for people who aren’t hurting to understand what living with chronic pain is like. They make all kinds of assumptions, including thinking that because you don’t look injured, you must be fine. Sometimes chronic pain sufferers themselves have misconceptions.
It’s time to separate fact from fiction. By increasing understanding, hopefully we can increase support for those in pain.
Misconception 1. You don’t look sick, so you must not be in that much pain.
The Truth. Just because someone was able to get out of bed, dress up and put on a smile for a while doesn’t mean they’re not hurting. People with chronic pain learn to act “normal” to avoid “spoiling the fun” for those around them. But silently they may be near tears.
Misconception 2. You shouldn’t complain about your pain.
The Truth. Talking honestly about what you’re going through can help your friends and family understand your situation and help your doctor treat you. Expressing your feelings may also help relieve your anxiety and depression. You have a right to express yourself.
Misconception 3. If your doctor can’t figure out what’s wrong with you, your pain isn’t real.
The Truth. Some illnesses are not well understood and can go undiagnosed for years. If you are hurting, you have the right to keep seeking a diagnosis. And you have the right to get treatment for your pain even if doctors still haven’t figured out what’s causing it.
Misconception 4. If you’re in pain, you can’t or shouldn’t exercise.
The Truth. You may need to exercise carefully, depending on the source of your pain, but exercise is good for your overall health and can help you cope with the anxiety and depression that often comes with the pain. In most cases, a physical therapist can help you find a way to exercise safely.
Misconception 5. Drugs are the only solution to pain.
The Truth. Drugs can indeed bring relief to pain sufferers, but other strategies can help too. Some patients find relief with interventions such as steroid injections. Some find that techniques such as biofeedback or cognitive behavioral therapy help.
Misconception 6. You should never take opioid medications. If you do, you’re an addict.
The Truth. While opioids can lead to addiction, when used carefully under a doctor’s supervision, they can also help patients cope with the worst of their pain. Be sure to talk honestly with your doctor about any addictive tendencies you have and discuss other strategies that may also work for you. Other types of medications and treatments may help enough that you only need to use the strongest painkillers on your worst days. A pain specialist can help you sort out the best option for you.
Misconception 7. If you were up and moving last week, you must be better.
The Truth. People with many chronic pain conditions have good days and bad days. On the good days, they’re able to do more than on the bad days. And sometimes they push themselves to do something despite the pain (although they often feel much worse later).
If you need support dealing with chronic pain, we can help.
Tulsa Pain is a pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 918-742-7030 or Request An Appointment to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
