Seven Tips for a Healthier Holiday

As the holiday season approaches us, we can get so busy that we easily forget about our health.  “For patients with chronic pain, the holidays can be a great time to relax their mind and body. Spending time with loved ones can actually help to relieve pain, but it’s important to not let your health take a back seat to all the hustle and bustle of the holidays.”

Here are seven tips for making your holidays a healthy one:

1. Do not drink alcohol while taking pain medication, and consult with your doctor if you are confused about what you can safely enjoy while on certain medications.
2. If you have back or neck pain, setting limits on carrying heavy objects like suitcases or big turkeys can prevent unnecessary exacerbation.
3. While holiday shopping, make frequent breaks to rest your knees and back.  Sitting and stretching for 5-15 minutes will allow your body to recover.
4. If you have particular anxiety or depression during the holidays, see your counselor or health provider for help with these seasonally intensified symptoms.
5. Be extra careful when using ladders while putting ornaments or lights on the house – a dangerous fall is not how you want to spend your holidays.
6. If you are traveling for more than a month, make arrangements with your doctor regarding your prescribed medications.  Sometimes, your doctor can rearrange the timing your medications so it will fit your schedule. Certain medications cannot be refilled over the phone across state lines, so you may be out of luck if traveling out of state and you run out.
7. If you have a pain problem that needs immediate attention while away on vacation, call your doctor’s office, a pain management office within your area of travel, or go to the nearest emergency room.  Your physicians may be able to assist you with your questions or direct you to other medical care in your travel area.

“Last but not least, though not particularly medical advice, be kind to others and you will feel better about yourself and the world.”

From all of us at PMIR, cheers and well wishes during this holiday season!