Move more for a positive frame-of-mind

For people struggling with leg pain, it's not just about physical discomfort; it can also deeply affect mental well-being. Understanding the link between physical pain and mental health is pivotal for your overall wellness.

How chronic pain can impact quality of life

Here are the watchouts for your mental health and the steps you can take to turn things around.

• Chronic pain and emotional distress:
  Persistent discomfort and restricted mobility can understandably lead to frustration, irritability, and even depression. Enduring chronic pain can erode a person’s resilience and coping mechanisms, making it challenging to maintain a positive outlook on life.
• Sleep disturbances:
  Leg pain often disrupts sleep quality, leading to insomnia or irregular sleep patterns. Inadequate rest can heighten stress, anxiety, and mood fluctuations, further impacting mental health. Sleep deprivation also impairs cognitive function and emotional regulation, complicating the ability to cope with pain and daily challenges.
• Social life:
  Coping with chronic leg pain may make social situations and hobbies feel daunting or unfeasible. This isolation can fuel feelings of loneliness, sadness, and diminished self-worth.
• Loss of independence:
  Severe leg pain can reduce your mobility and independence, fostering feelings of helplessness and loss of autonomy. Inability to perform daily tasks unaided or engage in activities independently can profoundly impact self-esteem and mental well-being. This loss of independence may also trigger anxiety about managing ongoing pain in the future.

Steps you can take

Steps to take if you or someone you know is experiencing chronic leg pain:

• Consult a healthcare provider to discuss symptoms and explore available treatment options.
• Incorporate relaxation techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing to ease anxiety and bring feelings of calm.
• Build a supportive social circle and engage in activities that bring joy and fulfilment.

Tips for integrating movement into daily routines:

1. Take brief walks in the garden or your neighbourhood.
2. Play your favourite music and move (or dance!) around your home.
3. Try chair exercises while watching television – every bit of movement contributes to your well-being.