How Physical Activity Helps Manage My Chronic Pain Disorder
When I was initially diagnosed with New Daily Persistent Headache (NDPH) I had to stop all physical activity. Exercise and sports was a big part of my life and I was very upset that I could not return to my passion for tennis. I had no way to manage my pain and was constantly feeling down. I felt left behind while other kids my age were competing and improving.
Coming back to September 2020, 3.5 years having NDPH, and physical activity is a big part of my life again. I exercise 5-6 times a week but not at the same level I used to. It took me a long time to come this far because I realized the problem I was having: I always push myself to put in 100% effort and this would cause my pain to become excruciating.
Any kid who plays a competitive sport knows that their coach always tell them to put in 100% effort and strength, and it took me a while to learn that I am not like other kids who play. It took a while to master this skill, but I learned how to pace myself throughout the time I am playing so I am not in excruciating pain by the time practice is over. I enjoy exercising now because I feel empowered- I am able to manage my pain and do something that is very important and special to me. It shows how far I have come in my chronic pain journey, from not being able to get out of bed in 2017 to excelling in school and returning back to my passions in 2020.
Categories: Blog
