Taking Personal Responsibility for Pain

Chronic pain does not behave according to the same rules as acute pain. For many people who suffer with chronic back or neck pain, finding out what is wrong and what can be done about it is one of the most debilitating experiences associated with their condition. One reason for this is that chronic pain, by nature, is elusive. Patients often feel discounted or compromised in the process of diagnosis and treatment. It might take months, or even years of doctors' visits to get a definitive diagnosis. Worse, the patient may be told that the pain is "all in your head", and be advised to "just deal with it".

So, what can you do for yourself, so that you walk through this challenge as an empowered individual? There are many things, such as understanding your options, as well as the anatomy of your spine. You can keep track of your symptoms accurately and clearly. Believe it or not, you hold the key to successfully getting a diagnosis for your pain. This is because only you know your symptoms, and your symptoms are where the doctor begins in the quest for the cause. And if you have depression, know that this may well be something physiological, more than psychological. If you are having problems getting friends and family to understand you, try reaching out - there are support groups online and in-person.

Finally, even doctors can have chronic pain. One doctor, known in her hospital for using unconventional methods with her patients, has written a comprehensive book on Healing Pain. Check it out.

| Communicating Your Symptoms to the Doc | Types of Doctors for Back or Neck Pain | Diagnosing Back or Neck Pain | Pain Management | Assertiveness Training Resources |