Living with Chronic Pain: Embracing Life Amidst Struggles
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Chapter 1: The Daily Struggle with Pain
Chronic pain is a reality that many endure daily, and it's often misunderstood. I came across a humorous TikTok last year where an equestrian was asked by a doctor how much pain they were in. The reply was, "Just the usual amount." The joke highlights that the typical amount of pain is supposed to be zero. However, countless individuals, myself included, experience persistent discomfort.
The most significant pain I deal with is in my right shoulder. Although I require surgery, the long wait times in the UK due to COVID-19 complicate things. Even with a national health service, the backlog can be daunting. As someone raised in a low-income American household, I often avoid seeking medical help unless absolutely necessary. This mentality is bewildering to medical professionals, who are taken aback when I explain my reluctance to seek treatment. For those who have had to choose between basic necessities and healthcare, this sentiment resonates deeply.
Shoulder Instability
My right shoulder is plagued by subluxation, which means the joint frequently dislocates due to bone degradation. This daily struggle varies; some days it’s manageable, while others, the pain is nearly unbearable. It’s becoming increasingly evident that I may need to consult a doctor since physiotherapy no longer alleviates the discomfort.
Arthritis
Arthritis is the root cause of my shoulder issues, and it affects numerous joints in my body. My knees are particularly problematic, with the left knee sustaining the most damage. Ironically, the right knee is often the more painful one due to compensating for the weakness in my left. My fingers have become stiff and misshapen, yet I continue to manage my daily tasks, albeit with a modified grip.
Headaches
Tension headaches are another common ailment that many of us endure. Typically, I alleviate the pain with a couple of ibuprofen and try to push through until it subsides.
Ankle Injury
One of my longstanding injuries is my left ankle, sustained when I was seventeen. My neighbor's playful black labrador, aptly named Tripps, caused me to fall, leading to a fracture and extensive ligament damage. Unfortunately, such injuries rarely heal completely, leaving me vulnerable to unexpected ankle failures.
The Conclusion
At 45 years old, I feel quite broken. If I were a horse, I would have been retired long ago. Nevertheless, my stubbornness drives me to keep moving forward. Perhaps it's the influence of being a Generation X individual or a southern gal, but I firmly believe in the ethos of 'keep going.'
Despite my physical challenges, I rise at five each morning, ready to tackle the day. My responsibilities include being a wife, mother, and caretaker for an assortment of pets—one dog, one cat, two gerbils, two rabbits, a horse, and a pond filled with fish and frogs.
I continue to work with an ex-racehorse, manage the kids' extracurricular activities, and find time for my hobbies, like reading. I’ve even contemplated dusting off my sewing machine to create a baby quilt for a new family member, but finding the time is a challenge.
With university classes resuming in October, my schedule is about to get busier. If anyone feels inspired to raise funds for a maid, cook, and gardener, I would greatly appreciate it! Yet, the essential takeaway from my experiences is that regardless of age or physical limitations, there are always ways to savor life. Even small joys, like basking in the sun on a beautiful day, deserve appreciation. Life is uncertain, so embrace it fully.
Chapter 2: Coping Strategies for Chronic Pain
Exploring effective methods for managing chronic pain can enhance quality of life. This video discusses various strategies to cope with the ongoing challenges.
Section 2.1: Personal Stories of Living with Pain
In this video, individuals share their personal experiences with living in chronic pain, providing valuable insights and support for others in similar situations.