Pain management jigsaw
Pain can feel like a puzzle sometimes. This page explores topics that can help if you are living with pain.
The Pain Management Jigsaw is a tool to support you to access resources and information that will help you manage your pain.
As pain can affect every aspect of your life, managing it can involve many different approaches which are reflected by the pieces of the jigsaw.
This page covers all the pieces of the Pain Management Jigsaw.
This Pain Management Jigsaw was originally developed by the NHS Fife Pain Management Team.
Click on the pieces of the jigsaw below that resonate with your personal pain experience.
Understand your condition
Increase your knowledge and understanding of persistent pain and pain management.
Acceptance
Acceptance can be a tricky concept. When we use it we don’t mean “giving in to pain” or “giving up”, but rather making a choice to focus on doing what really matters to you.
Movement
Keep active and moving. Find out more about the benefits of gentle home exercise, and local opportunities.
Activity management
Understand how your activity levels influence your pain and how to manage them better.
Setting goals important to you
Set realistic targets and be kind to yourself. Small steps lead to greater success.
Relaxation and mindfulness
Although not one and the same, relaxation and mindfulness can both be helpful strategies in managing persistent pain.
Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is really important for our wellbeing. Unfortunately, pain can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep.
Communication
It’s important to talk and be honest about how you feel with family and friends. It can also be important to let them know ways that they can support you in living well with pain.
Managing thoughts and emotions
Living with persistent pain can go hand in hand with difficult thoughts and feelings.
Get involved and reconnect to life
Become an expert in what you can do locally to manage your pain.
Medication
Increase your understanding about your medication. Work with your GP / Pharmacist / Specialist to make sure it is safe and effective.
Nutrition and lifestyle
Aim for a balanced diet, healthy weight and good hydration to help manage your pain. Avoid any excess.
Flare ups
Develop a plan for a bad day. Adjust your daily activity but always stay active.
Self management toolbox
Learn about how tools such as heat / cold packs, patches or gels, TENS and cushions may help with your pain.
NHS Lanarkshire Support
Find out about supports that are available.
