Chronic pain
CHRONIC V ACUTE PAIN
Do you know the difference between pain?
Most of us know the pain of a headache,
sunburn, bee sting, or broken bone.
They all hurt differently, but can usually
be identified, treated and resolved fairly
quickly. But what if that pain didn't go
away? Because of its subjective nature,
pain is considered either acute or chronic.
'Acute' pain usually lasts a short time, or
the time it takes the body to heal (a few
days up to a few weeks). But pain that
persists past the initial pain experience
or healing time (3 months or longer), is
considered 'chronic' pain?. It's important
that treatment for different types of pain is
assessed by a GP or pharmacist, so that it
can be better managed.
Have pain?
Here's food for thought
Just as food is linked to so many aspects of our lifestyle, it also plays a big
part in how we experience and manage pain. Eating a variety of foods
from the five food groups (and limiting 'junk' food) can improve energy
levels and help maintain a healthy weight. Reducing your weight by even
1kg significantly reduces the weight off your joints, which can reduce
pressure and pain you may experience. A healthy diet also helps you
meet all your vitamin and mineral needs, which in turn can reduce your
perception of pain and improve your mood. How's that for feel-good?
3.24
MILLION
THE POWER OF RI.CE.
R.I.C.E.
No, we're not talking about the starchy grain used in risotto...although
eating healthily can help with pain (read 'Food for thought' ). R.I.C.E.
is a simple, at-home treatment used for sprains and strains, using Rest,
Ice, Compression and Elevation to help reduce pain and swelling.
AUSTRALIANS
LIVE WITH CHRONIC PAIN,
WITH AROUND 46% OF THESE
EXPERIENCING ANXIETY OR
R.I.C.E. can help with some acute injuries (along with over the counter-
pain-relief medication), however it's best to see your GP if the injury is
severe, or if pain and swelling aren't improved after 48 hours.
DEPRESSION*
C
E
REST INJURED AREA FOR
ICE FOR 20 MINUTES AT A TIME,
COMPRESS TO HELP
ELEVATE INJURED AREA 6-10 INCHES
48 HOURS
48 TIMES PER DAY
REDUCE SWELLING
ABOVE HEART LEVEL