Millions of Americans suffer each year with chronic pain, and many aren’t sure where to begin when it comes to managing feelings or taking on daily tasks efficiently. Chronic pain is defined as pain lasting longer than six months. This can involve any number of things from joint and muscle issues, to all-over global pain that makes even the simplest of tasks difficult to perform. It can affect any part of the body for any length of time, and age isn’t necessarily a factor; people all across the age spectrum have experienced chronic pain.

Fortunately, there are some simple ways you can change your lifestyle in order to make it more fulfilling, safe, and joyful. The key is to find ways to make your life easier while taking your physical needs into consideration. Your home and work environments are a major factor and can contribute to a reduction in the pain you experience every day if they are modified correctly.

Here are a few tips on how you can lead a more fulfilling life as a chronic pain sufferer:

When seeking relief from chronic pain it is important for your health and well-being that you utilize conservative forms of care first. If we go straight for pharmaceutical relief or surgery, we may be missing out on a safer solution. Chiropractic care has been highly effective in treating chronic pain associated with the musculoskeletal system and central nervous system. Chiropractors use a variety of non-invasive, drug free treatment options. For example, chiropractors will adjust areas in the spine that are restricted. Releasing these restrictions can provide relief from pain. Chiropractic care can also include pain management modalities like muscle stimulation, ultrasound and physical therapy to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation and increase ranges of motion.

Depending on the type of chronic pain you suffer from, there may be many different home modifications you can make to ensure that your daily activities are safe and comfortable. Making your home more accessible by changing your flooring, lowering counter-tops, widening doorways, or adding shelving can help you manage your movements and keep things more accessible, allowing you to complete tasks more easily. While some of these changes can be done as D.I.Y projects, many will require the help of a professional. Click here for more info.

Finding ways to relax can help you manage your pain from day to day, and there are several diverse ways you can achieve this. Some people prefer to practice yoga or meditation daily. This focuses on breathing and being mindful of the moment, easing stress and anxiety. Others like to pursue a hobby such as playing a sport or reading a book. Regardless of the technique, relaxing is important. Do it every day and make it part of your regular routine.

Chronic pain sufferers can have a challenging time feeling understood by friends, family, and even doctors because their ailments aren’t always visible to the naked eye. It’s important, then, to garner support from a therapist or support group, where you can talk about both your physical and emotional needs to someone who understands.

It’s not always easy to get in eight hours of solid sleep, especially when you’re hurting. It’s important to try, however, since good sleep can have a significant impact on your body and your mind. Identify certain triggers that might make sleep harder to come by, such as alcohol use, smoking, an uncomfortable bed, or too much screen time before you lay down for the night and reduce or remove them from your daily routine. If that doesn’t work, talk to your doctor about natural supplement aids to help you fall asleep and stay there.

Since your body is often uncomfortable, it’s imperative that you do everything you can to find comfort in other places. Buy soft, loose clothing, invest in a cervical pillow and soft sheets, and make sure your office chair has plenty of support. Making your environment more body-friendly will help you feel good even when your body is aching.

It’s not always easy to find ways to relax when you’re hurting, but by working certain techniques into your daily life, you’ll find yourself getting into a routine that will be sustainable even on bad days. This will motivate you and help you keep going so that you can remain active and vital.