You Have a Flare Up. What Should You Do?

When we are dealing with chronic conditions or pain, we occasionally have flare ups. There may be a mechanical reason for increased pain, such as prolonged sitting for low back pain or sleeping in a poor position for cervical pain. Other times, there may not appear to be a specific reason for increased symptoms, which can be frustrating! Either way, there are steps you can take to feel empowered to control your pain. Below are a few steps to help manage pain and inflammation:

1. Ice it: This is not only indicated when an initial injury occurs. In fact intermittent icing can be helpful managing chronic inflammation. 10-15 minutes a few times per day during a flare up can be bef6 effective.
2. Anti-inflammatories: Oral medication, such as Advil or ibuprofen (or what your doctor has prescribed) can help manage inflammation. Additionally, a more holistic approach, you can use supplements such as Inflammatone or Arthrosoothe. 
3. Movement: ​In the initial 24 hours of an acute injury, rest may be indicated. However research now demonstrates that corrective movement & therapeutic exercise is most effective for managing pain & symptoms. This would include the pilates home exercises your instuctor has given you, walking, or gentle cardiovascular exercise. Pilates Santé instructors will modify your sessions to help manage your symptoms.
4. Stress management: Studies show that stress and related increased cortisol levels increase inflammation in the body. Techniques such as breathing & meditation can be very helpful for this. Check out our Stress Management page here!
5. Other resources: Oftentimes, I refer our patients and clients to other practitioners for treatment to work as a team in pain management. Our community consists of chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists. If you are interested in specific recommendations for you, please do let us know.

Remember that flare up in symptoms are temporary, and the body can heal and recover! We are here for you, and are deeply grateful for you trusting us with your care! 

“Your body’s ability to heal is greater than anyone has permitted you to believe.“

In gratitude,
Ariel Lehaitre
Pilates Santé Owner & Physical Therapist

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