Besides medication, self-care is an essential aspect of pain management. By taking an active role in managing your pain, you will feel better and you will be able to regain control of your life.

Learn more about the condition that is causing you pain and how to manage your daily activities, as well as to lessen your pain. A healthy lifestyle can help improve your ability to cope with pain and improve your overall health. You can also provide your healthcare provider with information of how your condition/treatment is progressing through self-monitoring.

Do not be afraid to ask for help. Support from your family, friends and healthcare providers is important to help you manage your pain well.

Remember: Consult your healthcare provider about self-care advice that is most appropriate for you. Contact your healthcare provider whenever you feel confused or anxious about your condition.

Education
The first step to effective self-care is to know more about your disease or condition and how you can manage it. You can obtain disease and other related information from different sources .

Healthcare Providers
Healthcare providers are the people who know your condition best. They will be able to educate you about your health problem, devise a treatment program that is most suitable for you, and advise you on ways to manage your condition, as well as improve your quality of life.

Internet
There are many web sites set up by professional health groups, organisations or societies that offer good and reliable health educational information for consumers. Visit these web sites to learn more about the types of pain, tips to cope with pain, or even to share your experiences with others through online discussion groups.

Local Support Groups & Health Organizations
Your local support groups or health organizations may sometimes conduct health talks or forums about the condition or disease that is causing your pain. You may want to participate in these activities, or contact the support groups and organizations directly for further information.