The TakeAway: Heidi talks about managing pain after stroke
In March 2020, I woke up feeling ...off.
Disconnected is probably the best word for it. I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was wrong, but I knew something wasn’t right. I rang a close friend, and as we spoke, he said something that changed the trajectory of my life.
“You can’t hear what I’m hearing.”
Heidi, you’re in a bit of pain right now, and you can’t tell that you’re in pain. Do you live your life hiding it? (0.33 secs)
Heidi says, “I don’t deliberately hide it, but I deliberately have an attitude in which – it isn’t going to beat me. Two days ago, I had real problems getting out of bed...”
Can you describe what type of pain you’re experienced since your stroke and has it changed over time? (1.13 mins)
Heidi says, “Yes, and yes it has changed over time. Initially I was in too much shock to feel the pain.....I developed polymyalgia and then fibromyalgia and the pain and body limitations associated with that has been life changing...”
Resources:
What strategies or treatments have you found helpful in managing physical pain, whether medical, therapeutic or alternative? (2.57 mins)
Heidi says, “I try not to deal with my pain through drugs where possible.... When I get flare ups, I try to walk and do strength training (I use Keiser). It’s also about having a positive attitude – which really helps me to get through the day...”
“For me, pain management is all about moving.”
Resources:
- Podcast: Pain after stroke
- I-Rebound: Move more after stroke
How do you cope with the frustration or exhaustion that can come from ongoing pain? (5.07 mins)
Heidi says, “There are three main ways; going for a walk, because that makes me feel so much better. Strength training which releases endorphins. And the one thing that has gotten me through the last few years has been my ‘nanna or power naps’.
Resources:
Emma Gee blog: Pain management, self-care & acceptance!
Do you think that pain and fatigue impact each other? (6.28 mins)
Heidi says, “Yes. The more fatigued I am the more likely I don’t move, which can impact the pain. But after doing strength training, I don't feel nearly as much pain as I used to, and I am less fatigued.”
Resources:
You did the Living Well After Stroke program, did that help you with pain management? (7.07 mins)
Heidi says, “I think it is an incredibly valuable program. It reminded me of the importance of taking my tablets correctly. It helped me to understand the importance of exercise and ding that safely – It has made huge difference.”
Resources:
Living Well After Stroke or TIA program
Have you ever felt dismissed or misunderstood when speaking with others, including health professionals, about your pain? (8.55mins)
Heidi says, “Yes, in short YES! It was well over 6 months before we could crack the code of my pain by seeing a really good rheumatologist. There were days when I couldn't get in and out of the car or get up out of a chair were over. It’s very frustrating to not be understood, but even worse if you are not being heard....One of the things that I did which made all the difference was calling StrokeLine 1800 787 653.”
Resources:
StrokeLine (1800 787 653) health professionals provide information and advice on stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery.