With holiday season approaching, family time is usually something that we can look forward to. But when your neck and back are seemingly always hurting, it makes it tough to soak up those precious moments and make the most of them.

So what can you do to stop that chronic pain in its tracks? Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team gives you the scoop.

What Causes Chronic Pain?

Even though so many people struggle with it, chronic pain still remains somewhat of a mystery to most doctors and medical experts.

The reason is that chronic pain can be caused by so many different factors. Back pain, for example, can be caused by a single factor or from a combination of factors like years of poor posture, being overweight or even wearing high heels. Disease can also be an underlying factor as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia are well-known causes.

Chronic Pain Symptoms

• Sharp pains in your lower back
• Frequent and lingering headaches
• Neck stiffness
• Muscle aches

How Can I Make My Body Feel Better?

Sure, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, but the best and longest-lasting ways to cope with chronic pain are by making lifestyle changes.

One of the biggest intensifiers of chronic pain is stress. By learning to identify and take control of your stress, you may find some relief of your chronic pain. Listening to music that you enjoy, practicing deep breathing and doing some light stretching can help your body feel more relaxed and less tense.

Other Chronic Pain Solutions

• Walk for 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
• Cut back on alcohol intake.
• Quit smoking if you’re a current smoker.

Are you struggling from chronic pain and you need medical attention? Come see us today at AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave.