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I thought it may be helpful to share with eachother what we do to get through our long work days when we are in pain. What kinds of things help you cope so that you're able to do your job effectively??
A few things I do: ~Take my meds on time! ~Don't over do it.. if there is something that needs to be done that I know I'd pay for later (ie: Lift heavy objects) then I find someone else to do it whenever possible. ~Take breaks when I can (I could be better at this). I try to take a short walk, so some breathing exercises, stretch, etc. ~Work from home when I am able to. ~Stay focused... I try to keep my mind off the pain as much as I can and keep busy. ~Use my sick time! That's what it's there for!
For me..... It's all about ensuring I'm eating properly and exercising. Exercise seems to keep my muscles loose and in shape. I also try to work from home as much as possible (atleast 2 to 3 days a week). While at work I ensure that I take time to take deep breaths and break away from the madness (I have such the personality that I try to make folks laugh and keep it 'light' even in the most stressful times). I don't take med's for my TMJ, but I do ensure I take my vitamines and drink AMPLE water. Additionally, as of late I've stopped drinking alcohol and focused on eating very healthy (tons of veggie's etc).
I'm bad at taking time off. I'm a work aholic and travel on my weekends to international sites... So sadly I'm not a role model there.
Ok this is really weird. I posted a reply and it seems it has disappeared. lol. Anyway, I was saying that I definitely agree with the working at home tip. Working at home helps me to create my own schedule and work with my condition instead of against it. The other thing that I find really helpful is taking breaks. Sometimes I have to remind myself.. it isn't good to sit at the computer for hours on end without getting up! There are programs you can download that tell you when to take breaks.. some even show you what type of exercises to do. I will be back with links to some that you can download or buy. stacy
Some programs to check out that will remind you to take a break and stretch:
http://publicspace.net/MacBreakZ/index.html - this one is a "personal ergonomic assistant" which reminds you to take breaks and then shows you exercises to do to minimize repetitive stress injuries. Really neat! (Mac and Windows)
http://kadmi.com/products.html This software reminds you to take a break and also records statistics on how long you are working. It has soothing music during break time. (windows only)
http://www.omniquad.com/downloads.htm At the bottom of this page is a program called "ergosense" which tells you when to take a break and prevents RSI and stress.
http://www.breakpal.com/ BreakPal is a different approach. This pops up every thirty minutes and walks you through an aerobics lesson. The idea is that exercise boosts productivity because you have more energy. You have three 15 minute workouts a day - which is the same as one 45 minute workout at the gym!
http://www.rsiguard.com/ Is a desktop ergonomic program that is used by physical therapists, medical practioners, etc. It shows you what exercises to do and gives statistics on what you have been doing.
Most of these programs have trial downloads so you can try the program before buying, and many are very inexpensive.. however, price shouldn't be a hindrance because what kind of price can you put on your health?? If this kind of simple solution helps.. then I would definitely take advantage of it. I know that when I stretch during my breaks, etc I feel better! stacy
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