I often joke with my husband and my friends that I know I’m getting old, because I can usually tell when it will rain because my body starts to ache. It can be a little funny sometimes but most of the time it really isn’t. I’ve suffered from lower back pain for a few years now and although I love winter, my back and body pain seems to get worse during the winter. I really noticed it this weekend when I was out with the kiddos at Legoland. My body was aching more than normally and I have to think it had to because of the cold weather and rain.
Last week I had the opportunity to participate in an online webinar with Dr. Jennifer Caudle, D.O. She is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and shared some great tips and information for those of us living with chronic pain.
- More than 76 million Americans live with pain every day
- The winter months can mean more pain
- While the holidays are hectic, ignoring or under-treating your pain comes at a high price because it can lead to more pain
- No matter what time of year, it is important to talk to your physician about the cause of your pain
- Find a doctor that listens and that you feel comfortable asking questions
- Going to a doctor is expensive. Multiple visits means it’s going to cost more money. If you have financial restrictions, talk with your doctor so you can come up with a plan that works.
- MDs and DOs, in terms of medical knowledge, skill and standard of care, are the same. DOs can use Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) – hands-on manipulation – to treat most types of pain. Anything from back pain to knee pain to pain from pregnancy, etc.
- You don’t have to use medications or only medications. There are other options such as; aqua therapy, physical therapy, ultrasound, aerobic exercises. Remember that with chronic pain, often times a multi-factorial approach is great. Having a dialogue with your doctor is important.
Visit osteopathic.org/pain to take the “Living with Pain?” quiz and download a pain checklist to discuss with your physician.