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When a ChronicBabe is also aCUTE Babe...
by Jenni Prokopy, the Editrix
Sometimes, a ChronicBabe is also aCUTE Babe. You know, AcuteBabe. As in, experiencing acute symptoms of some sort. As in, your Editrix has had acute back pain for the past week.
Luckily, I have a great pain management team in place, and I'm able to pop over to the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and get a refresher course of physical therapy, pain management strategies, breathing techniques, lessons in humor... yeah, that's right, even in my most acute phase I was still cracking up on the therapy table.
"Really?" you ask. "You were laughing while in huge pain?" Yes, I was. Was I crying a little bit, too? Of course -- after all, I am human.
You already have the tools
The thing about being a ChronicBabe is, you have tools that most people don't, tools that help you get through the day even when you're in huge pain, you're exhausted, you're itchy, whatever.
For example, I use humor in many situations, to relieve stress, to ease pain, to take the edge off. During a physical therapy appointment yesterday, Melissa, my therapist, had me doing an exercise in which I clenched alternating buttcheeks. In the mirror across from the therapy table, I could see my cheeks rising and falling in a little ass dance. I started to laugh, and then she laughed, because it was hiilarious to see my tush rising and falling. Even though I was in pain, it felt really good to share a laugh with someone.
Time management is another tool I use liberally. With fibromyalgia comes frequent exhaustion, so I know I have to budget my time. For example, today I need to fit in a couple hours of writing time for clients, I have to hit the bank and the post office, I need five or six 15-minute intervals of stretching to keep my back on a healing course, and I would love to spend a couple hours on the computer just surfing the web for new ideas. I'm going to use every tool I have to make sure I can fit all that in my schedule in a healthy way, which means taking lots of breaks, and using my voice recognition software to write -- giving my hands a much-needed break.
Bring those tools back!
There's nothing like a raging migraine, a back spasm, a broken arm -- whatever -- to throw you off balance. Suddenly, you're in a spin. You feel like the only thing you can focus on is the acute situation. This is when you most need your tools! Here's an exercise that may help you:
Write out a list of all the things you do every day to maintain your chronic. These can include your exercise regimen, dietary needs, journaling, meditation, medications, your phone tree, chick flicks -- anything you typically use on a given day to help you be your best. These are your tools! Keep this list handy. I keep my list (see the photo) posted in my office on my bulletin board, and also on my bedside table. In an acute situation, the list is hard to miss and it helps me remember that I know how to take care of myself -- that there is no need to freak out and forget all my good habits.
Time for teamwork
During an acute phase, one of your most crucial tools is your team. Who's on your team? Your friends, your family, your partner, your neighbor, your manicurist, your pet goldfish... anyone who helps you get through your day and be your best. When you are in a really rough spot, it's time to call in the team. Can't drive for a few days? Ask a friend to pick up some healthy groceries for you (instead of ordering a pizza). Feeling extra-blue? Call a girlfriend and ask her to tell you a dirty joke (instead of hermitting and isolating).
If there's any time to lean on your team, this is it. You're no leech -- you can return the favor with home-baked goodies or babysitting later -- but right now, you need them. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Remember: this is temporary.
Most important: remember, this is a temporary situation. You are a tough babe. You know how to take care of yourself, and you will get through this -- as long as you stick to your good habits and don't allow a short-term situation throw you off-course.
Posted: 2/24/2006 in Coping | Also posted in: Crafty
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