Opening Statement:
Pain professionals and activists from all around the country get together to raise awareness about problems connected to chronic pain during this month of September. Chronic pain directly impacts millions of people in the United States. Pain Awareness Month aims to make the public aware of how prevalent general pain is, educate them on how to deal with pain, and collect funding for research into the causes and treatment of various forms of pain. Pain sufferers are joining together to enhance therapy and alleviate the agony they are experiencing. On a personal note, I’ve been suffering with chronic pain in my neck and lower back since 2009 from Scoliosis and from the after affects from having a Spinal Fusion to correct my Scoliosis.
History Of Pain Awareness Month
· Pain Awareness Month was established in 2001 by a consortium of organizations coordinated by the American Chronic Pain Association (A.C.P.A.). These organizations, which included the American Cancer Society and N.A.A.C.P., came together under the auspices of the ‘Partners for Understanding Pain initiative.’ A launch lunch for the alliance was hosted by the American College of Physicians in 2002 during the International Association for the Study of Pain Conference. By 2003, the Partners for Understanding Pain had grown to include more than 30 member organizations. U.S. Representative Mike Rogers delivered a keynote address during the 2004 conference in Washington, D.C.
· Additionally, the A.C.P.A. and Partners for Understanding Pain released their first toolkit in 2004, which was developed in collaboration with organizations such as the American Association of Rehabilitation Nurses, the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nurses Association, the American Society of Perianesthesia Nurses, and the American Society of Pain Management Nurses. Another toolkit, this one highlighting the role of pharmacists in pain management, was made available in 2005. When the A.C.P.A. and its partners issued three tool kits in 2006, one for nurses, one for pharmacists, and one for older individuals, they were hailed as a success.
· After a decade of successful monthly observances, the A.C.P.A. decided to take a more grassroots approach in 2007, collaborating with local facilitators to raise awareness through the media about the causes of pain and to eradicate the stigma attached to seeking medical care.
Frequent Questions
· What Causes Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is often the result of an initial injury, such as muscular strain. Chronic pain arises due to nerve injury, which intensifies and prolongs the agony.
· When Does Pain Become Chronic?
Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for three months or more, and in certain circumstances, the neural system remains hyperactive after the original injury or sickness has healed.
· Is It Normal to Hurt Every Day?
Aches may also result from daily activities, particularly if you sit, walk, or exercise for extended periods. You may only need rest and home therapy to alleviate your bodily pains. However, some pains, particularly those that persist over an extended period, may indicate the presence of an underlying ailment.
Things You Can Do to Help
· Volunteer
This simple act communicates that, although chronic pain sufferers may not seem physically unwell, they deserve the same level of care as those suffering from chronic bodily diseases. Take some time out to volunteer today.
· Advocate
Discuss what Pain Awareness Month means to you with your friends and relatives and urge them to share your stories with your friends and family. Even sharing one story could help a sufferer.
· Collaborate
If you belong to a support group or know other individuals who suffer from chronic pain, you may organize a gathering to promote awareness. Because pain impacts so many individuals, there are several groups and organizations to whom you may reach out.
Additional Facts
· Chronic Pain Can Cause Isolation
Individuals suffering from chronic pain are not unusual to experience emotions of loneliness and their discomfort may prevent them from engaging in social events or doing things they like.
· Chronic Pain Can Cause Insomnia
Chronic pain often has a negative impact on people's sleep and may lead to insomnia in certain situations, making it virtually hard to obtain a decent night's sleep.
· More Women Than Men Suffer
Chronic pain affects more women than men.
· Diet Can Alleviate or Worsen Chronic Pain.
Some individuals have discovered that the meals and beverages they consume daily may help or hurt their chronic pain.
· Chronic Pain Doesn’t Have a Clear Cause
Although there are many possible causes of chronic pain, it's also crucial to highlight that chronic pain sometimes does not have a clear cause.
Why Pain Awareness Month Is Important
· It Helps Raise Funds
Pain awareness month helps collect funds for research in pain treatment and management techniques. See what you can do to help on this day, be it donating or volunteering.
· It Helps Raise Awareness
Pain awareness month helps raise awareness of the importance of healthy living and medical checkouts. Make sure your loved ones get checked out regularly.
· It Helps Encourage Those Affected
When more individuals come out about chronic pain, people who suffer from it realize they are not alone and that a whole community understands and supports them. Half the burden is the stigma and isolation.
Closing Statement:
It was back in 2001 when Pain Awareness Month was established with a consortium of organizations coordinated by the American Chronic Pain Association who established this important awareness. Those who suffer from chronic pain are often misunderstood and can feel isolated, I know I feel this way almost every day. Getting up every morning is extremely difficult and there are many times myself as well as others feel all you want to do is give up because it is easier than pain. But…we can’t give up. My pain is somewhat managed with a combination of steroid injections and radio frequency maintenance injections. Personally, I do not like taking too many types of pain medication, especially since I need three different medications for my chronic migraines that I take every day. For the past several months, I have weaned myself off taking my medication for anxiety and depression. I do see a therapist to help me with my depression and anxiety issues.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches, Printed Marketing, Personal Experiences and Opinions
NOTE: I will be taking a short writing/blogging break due to my migraines, chronic pain,
anxiety, and depression.
I hope to return soon. Stay safe and well everyone and remember… NEVER GIVE UP!
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