The Pain Survival Guide

Despite recent advances in the study of pain, there is still no medical treatment, alternative therapy, or herbal remedy that can eliminate all pain for all people all of the time. And many who suffer chronic pain know all too well the risks of over-reliance on pain medications. Only you know the ins and outs of your pain; only you can change your feelings of helplessness and despair into empowerment and resilience in the face of persistent pain and its many effects on your life. The authors of this bestselling book are highly-respected experts on pain management who have successfully treated thousands of patients. Their 10-lesson self-management program offers clinically-proven strategies for making simple, gradual adjustments to daily patterns so you can take cope with chronic pain and take charge of your life. Readers of this book will learn how to: Identify and reject harmful myths about pain; Balance activity and rest; Fix sleep problems; Leverage family and friends for support; Manage emotional response to pain; Regain self-confidence; and Avoid relapsing into unhealthy behaviors This edition offers important information on the risks of opioid use for chronic pain, and discusses new treatment options including acceptance and commitment therapy, mind-body interventions such as tai chi, and cannabinoids. It also includes a Resource Guide that shows readers how to access support groups and find help paying for health insurance and medication; offers tips for communicating with healthcare teams and employers; and recommends mobile apps to assist with self-management strategies.