Rehab and Lifestyle

Rehab After Treatment

With pain management treatment, progressive physical activity is important for rehabilitation. Tissues heal better when they are being used, so do not overly restrict activities. Depending on your condition and treatment plan, we generally encourage patients to maintain movement as tolerated. Consult with Dr. Greenberg to determine which movements and positions are most beneficial for your individual rehab plan.

Rehab Protocols

 

Pain and Your Diet

There is a connection between your nutrition and pain. What we eat affects health, disease and the growth and repair of our body. Foods that have been found to be anti-inflammatory may reduce pain over time when included in your diet. Examples of meats, fruits and vegetables include:

  • Salmon
  • Mackerel
  • Sardines
  • Albacore tuna
  • Halibut
  • Blueberries
  • Raspberries
  • Strawberries
  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Green beans

Foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids and fiber are also considered to be anti-inflammatory. These include:

  • Walnuts
  • Olives
  • Avocado
  • Oatmeal
  • Brown Rice

Lastly, there are also herbs and spices that can be anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce pain:

  • Ginger
  • Thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Garlic
  • Tumeric

In addition, those suffering from chronic pain should avoid foods that cause inflammation and trigger headaches or pain. These include:

  • Potatoes
  • Peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Eggplant
  • Coffee (and other caffeinated beverages)
  • Chocolate
  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco

A Healthy Diet

Click here to download the Advanced Pain Care Diet Recommendations for dietary recommendations that can help reduce your pain.

Pain and Your Weight

When you carry excessive weight, there are more stresses on your muscles and joints. A reduction of as little as ten pounds can have a real impact on your pain, energy, mood, and sleep.

Following the diet guidelines above may result in weight loss. Additionally, don’t forget exercise as an important part of your daily routine. Walking for 10 minutes three times per day helps strengthen support muscles and can lead to weight loss, while not stressing your body’s sore muscles or joints.

Recommended Exercises

These videos focus on your core and will help with spinal rehabilitation and strengthening.

Stretches (Spine)

Exercises (Spine)