Fear of pain

Fear of pain can be a barrier to a better life.

• Pace yourself. Know your body; read the signs and signals it’s giving you.
• Talk with your doctor about a plan for breakthrough pain to help you be prepared and give you more confidence.
• Some activities may temporarily increase your pain, such as exercise or physical therapy, but may be beneficial for you.

• Managing your chronic pain is essential. This does not mean getting rid of your pain. Taking too much opioid medication can interfere with independent living.
  • Opioids can make simple activities both difficult and dangerous (including walking and driving).
  • Some medications mask pain making it easier for you to overdo it.
  • Here is a link to ways to manage pain without using opioids.
  • Here is a link to non-opioid medications.