When Pain Is New or Changing
New, severe, unexplained or worsening pain deserves appropriate medical assessment. Do not assume physical pain is caused by blocked energy, suppressed emotion, karma or negative thought.
- Record when it began, where it is, how it feels, and how intense it is.
- Notice injury, illness, activity, other symptoms, medicines, and what improves or worsens it.
When Pain Persists
Persistent pain can affect movement, sleep, work, mood, relationships and daily life. Management may involve education, suitable activity, rehabilitation, psychological support, medication, treatment of an underlying condition and practical changes.
The Pacing Principle
Pacing means finding a sustainable rhythm between activity and recovery. It helps reduce the cycle of feeling better, doing everything, flaring severely and collapsing.
Try planned activity, brief recovery, reassessment and gradual adjustment. Pacing is not laziness. It is the intelligent use of available capacity.
A Compassionate Body Dialogue
Place a hand near, but not necessarily directly on, the painful area and say: I am listening. I will not punish you for hurting. I will seek the care, information and support you need.