Patients | Controlling Pain

Pain, according to the IASP (International Association for the Study of Pain), is defined as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage; but can also be experienced as social, psychological, or spiritual pain.  Pain is whatever the experiencing person says it is, existing whenever he/she says it does.  When pain is not addressed, whether physical, social, psychological or spiritual, there can be no quality of life.

Sometimes you can help take control of your pain through focusing on pleasant thoughts; or, you can communicate how you are experiencing pain with the “faces of pain” scale.

Controlling Pain
How would you like to take a mental vacation? Well you can if you let your imagination be your guide.

Begin by focusing on your breathing. Spend a few minutes breathing slowly and smoothly.

As you breathe, slowly count backward from 5, sinking deeper and deeper into a state of relaxation. Say to yourself “I feel deeply relaxed.”

Next, imagine a pleasant place that you can return to whenever you need relaxation or pain relief. For example: A warm, quiet beach or a tranquil fragrant garden. Close your eyes to help you concentrate.

“Experience” the place with all your senses – sight, touch, smell, hearing and taste. Remain there for about 5 minutes or longer, depending on the time you need for pain relief.

Let your imagination run free. Try to name the colors you see, or trace the shapes of the flowers blooming in the garden. Breathe in the sweet fragrance of the blossoms, listen to the birds chirping and feel the sun warm your skin. Now sip a cool beverage before you step along the garden path and greet a friend.

Slowly let the image you have chosen fade from the center of your attention, as you focus again on your breathing. Maintain a relaxed feeling. When you feel ready, count slowly to 5 and open your eyes.

 

Take the first step . . .

It is not easy to talk about the end-of-life, even with those who are closest to us.  Start these conversations today. Conversations before the “crisis” allow time for honest discussion, reflection, and planning.  Talking about end-of-life choices helps allow for a peaceful life closure, with dignity and respect.

For more information please call:

AGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION:

Phone (209) 957-3888

Admin Fax (209) 922-0294

Hospice of San Joaquin
3888 Pacific Ave
Stockton CA 95204