Pain Awareness Month – Time Out for Empathy
September is Pain Awareness Month. Millions of Americans suffer from conditions that cause chronic pain. Often, we may not know by looking at a person what he or she is going through. Chronic pain is an unwanted yet constant companion for many of our clients at AutoAccident.com. Part of our holistic approach to client care means we help our clients seek different avenues of pain management. While surgery is an option for some, others are best cared for by other modalities such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, spinal injections, or physical therapy. We also provide resources for clients to seek nutritional support and options for gentle strengthening exercises such as yoga.
The American Chronic Pain Association recommends an interdisciplinary pain management approach to the problem of chronic pain. This approach involves a team of healthcare professionals working with a person with pain. Some of the team members could include:
- Friends, family, neighbors
- Physicians
- Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants
- Nurses
- Physical therapists
- Psychologists
- Occupational therapists
- Vocational counselors
- Recreational therapists
- Nutritionists/dieticians
- Pharmacists
- Social workers
- Volunteers
A Month of Its Own
Almost 20 years ago, the ACPA led a coalition of various pain advocacy organizations to designate September as Pain Awareness Month. Approximately 80 groups, including consumer and professional groups, formed Partners for Understanding Pain together. This month, they work to increase public awareness of the complex issues surrounding chronic pain and its management.
Ways to Bring Awareness
In recognition of Pain Awareness Month, we wanted to take a moment to look at how awareness is being raised of the problem of chronic pain. Most of these are grassroots efforts in which we can all participate.
Light up the Landmarks. On September 9th, specific buildings, businesses, and landmarks will be illuminated with blue lights throughout the country. The reason for such a campaign is to get people to ask questions and spark conversations about chronic pain.
Beautify in Blue. Blue is the color designated to bring awareness to chronic pain. This idea is similar to the landmark lighting, but on a DIY scale. Signs and ribbons can be crafted to adorn your yard and home, or materials can be requested through the U.S. Pain Foundation.
Proclaim the Day. Pain Awareness Month has not yet been officially recognized. If you want to help the community gain government recognition, start by collecting signatures, then request a proclamation from your city or state to recognize the month of September as Pain Awareness Month.
Be a Table Host: The U.S. Pain Foundation has materials available to help you host a pain awareness table at a community center, hospital, library, or other public space that allows such informational displays.
Share Your Story on Social Media: Pain Awareness Month includes a 30-day social media challenge. If you want to participate by sharing your story about which treatments and modalities have been helpful in your chronic pain journey, use the hashtag #painawarenessmonth and let other pain sufferers know they are not alone.
Watch the YouTube video, which touches on our approach as a holistic law firm.
Roseville Personal Injury Lawyer
Hello – I’m Ed Smith, a Roseville personal injury lawyer. For close to 40 years, I have represented injured Roseville residents. If you or anyone you love has been injured because another person was negligent, we can offer compassionate, free, and friendly advice about your potential legal claim. We take a holistic approach to our clients’ recoveries. Reach us at (916) 921-6400 or from outside the local area at (800) 404-5400. You can also contact us online.
Photo: https://pixabay.com/illustrations/brain-inflammation-stroke-medical-3168269/
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