Nursing is a deeply fulfilling profession; it allows you to extend help and deliver care to those in need. However, the job is far from being a walk in the park. Nurses work long hours, stand for extended periods, and perform various physically demanding tasks, such as lifting and repositioning patients. These tasks involve repetitive twisting, bending, and squatting motions that can lead to musculoskeletal challenges and chronic pain over time.
In this article, we take a deep dive into the prevalence of stress and chronic pain among healthcare professionals. We also provide helpful pain management tips for nurses.
Stress and chronic pain in nursing
Chronic pain is rampant among healthcare professionals. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 72% of nurses are living with non-specific chronic low back pain (LBP). Chronic pain can heavily affect the way healthcare workers perform their jobs, hindering them from performing tasks that are crucial in the delivery of patient-centered care.
Studies show that the development of chronic pain among healthcare professionals can be attributed to many factors, including working over 48 hours per week and a lack of physical activity outside of work. Aside from LBP, other typical chronic pain areas among nurses are the neck, shoulder, and head.
Nurses perform strenuous physical tasks daily, and they’re also often exposed to significant stress, which can exacerbate chronic pain and contribute to broader health concerns. Nursing can be very stressful, requiring nurses to make quick decisions, help patients who have heightened emotional states, and work very long hours, which can lead to great stress and burnout. In fact, one US-based study found that a staggering 93% of nurses experienced high levels of work-related stress.
Given all these, nurses must be armed with self-care and proactive strategies to reduce stress and physical discomfort.
Pain management tips for nurses
Get quality sleep
Sleep and chronic pain are directly associated with one another. When you’re suffering from chronic pain, it’s more than likely that your sleep is heavily affected. And when you don’t get enough sleep, your pain tolerance is lowered and your pain intensity increases. According to one study, a whopping 50% to 88% of individuals living with chronic pain have difficulty sleeping.
To get quality sleep, stick to a sleep schedule. It’s important to go to bed and wake up at consistent hours, as this allows your body to stick to a natural sleep-wake cycle that promotes better sleep. Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and tea, and alcoholic beverages, before going to sleep.
Participate in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) sessions
CBT is a form of psychotherapy that deals with identifying and addressing thinking patterns and learned behaviors. It is effective in managing non-psychological health conditions, such as chronic pain. Through CBT, people with chronic pain can learn how to reduce pain by modifying pain sensations, catastrophic thinking, and maladaptive behaviors.
People living with chronic pain can benefit from participating in CBT treatments that range from 10 to 15 weekly sessions.
Prioritize an anti-inflammatory diet
Chronic pain arises from inflammation that doesn’t resolve, which is why sticking to a diet rich in anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial in helping manage its symptoms and promoting the body’s healing responses.
Foods rich in polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation, are great options, such as berries, tomatoes, red onions, and spinach. Fiber-rich foods such as beans, whole grains, and even popcorn can also help reduce inflammation. Consuming foods rich in healthy fats, such as mackerel, salmon, and tuna, in addition to incorporating anti-inflammatory spices like paprika, ginger, and rosemary, may help reduce chronic pain symptoms.
Opt for adaptive or therapeutic garments
Use adaptive or therapeutic garments and tools to maximize comfort when living with chronic pain. These include compression garments and support belts to address low back pain. When dealing with arthritis, it’s helpful to use compression gloves and socks to reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness.
People with rheumatoid arthritis can also benefit from using specialty shoes or footwear that offer wider sizes and offer great arch support, allowing you to manage your chronic pain while working extended hours on your feet.
We hope that these tips and tools can help you live a more comfortable and pain-free life, during and beyond your work shifts. Remember that tending to your own well-being is incredibly important, not just for the delivery of excellent patient care but also for your overall health and wellness. Listen to your body and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from healthcare professionals when you need it.
