How to Soothe Chronic Pain With Easy and Fun Activities?
May 9, 2022
The SCHC IPPC Physical and Occupational Therapy Series –> PART 2
By DIANA KINSLIKH-MOHAMED, MSc OT Reg. (Ont)
Occupational Therapist
Interprofessional Primary Care Team
The Occupational and Physiotherapy team at IPPC often ask their clients about what activities they enjoy most. Chronic pain and many other life situations can cause people to stop doing the things that they enjoy the most. This in turn drastically reduces their quality of life.
The best thing that one can do to manage their chronic pain condition is to return to these activities or do an easy version of them as quickly and as safely as possible. Not only are these activities motivating and help ensure that you continue moving, they also often help your body release endorphins which are also called the “happy” hormones and make you feel happier and act as natural painkillers in your body. Taking up new interests and hobbies is also a wonderful way to bring joy and movement into your life.
Of course, with chronic pain there is often a hesitation about engaging in activities out of fear of re-injury or making the pain worse. This is where a therapist comes in. You can work with your OT and PT team to figure out how to adapt these activities and ensure a safe and more comfortable transition. Here are some ideas of gentle activities to help get you inspired:
- Tai Chi
- Gentle Yoga
- Gentle Dance or Aerobics
- Walking
- Playing Music
- Playing with Kids
- Chair Exercises
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Aqua Fitness
- Gentle Pilates
- Gardening
- Creating Indoor and Outdoor Art and Craft Projects
- Knitting or Sewing
Take this quiz here to learn more about chronic pain.