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Chronic pain affects almost one in four people across Northern Ireland. Local Health and Social Care Board figures estimate that 400,000 people are living with some form of persistent pain.
Note: These aren’t meant to be medical advice. They’re tips that have worked for others and might work for you. Think carefully about your own situation and what works for you before trying anything new. Consider checking with others including your doctor before you use them.
“I did a mental health course during which I was encouraged to write my feelings down. I found it very helpful when it came to coping with the pain from my fibromyalgia and arthritis. It’s therapeutic to let out anger and frustration without worrying that people are judging you.”
Janis, Lisburn
“I’m having physiotherapy because I ended up with damage in my ligaments and pelvic wall following five operations for endometriosis and one for problems with my bladder. The physio was designed for the difficulties my conditions have created. It’s been really helpful.”
Robyn, Newtownards
“I have endometriosis and I used to be so attached to my hot water bottle that I ended up with burns on my tummy. An electrical heat pad was my saving grace. It has a long cable so I can use it in bed and it even turns itself off after a certain amount of time. I wore my last one out!”
Robyn, Newtownards
Studies show that if you keep it gentle, yoga can help to soothe lower back pain and make you more flexible. Check our 7 yoga tips that will help you cope with chronic pain here.
“When I went to a pain specialist in the City Hospital in Belfast, he explained how pain signals travel more slowly to the brain than sensations. As a result of that insight, I realised that if I wear a set of wristbands, I feel like I have less pain in my body. It really helped.”
Janis, Lisburn
If you suffer from chronic pain, you might want to discover more ways to take care of yourself. So here are some quick resources:
Note: Not all responses came from MyNI users.
Chronic pain affects almost one in four people across Northern Ireland. Local Health and Social Care Board figures estimate that 400,000 people are living with some form of persistent pain.