Managing Chronic Pain: Strategies for a Better Life
By Karen D. Sacks, LCSW | CRS for Life
Living with chronic pain can feel like being trapped in a cycle—one where your body and mind are in constant negotiation. At CRS for Life, we understand that pain is not just a physical sensation. It impacts every part of your life—your mood, your relationships, your work, and your sense of self. But there is hope. While we may not always be able to eliminate chronic pain entirely, we can learn to manage it and regain control over our lives.
Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than three to six months. Unlike acute pain, which alerts us to an injury, chronic pain often lingers beyond the typical healing process. It can be caused by a range of conditions—arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraines, back issues, autoimmune diseases—or it may persist without a clear diagnosis.
This kind of pain takes a toll not only on the body but on the mind. Anxiety, depression, frustration, and feelings of helplessness are common companions of chronic pain. That’s why effective pain management must address both the physical and emotional aspects.
At CRS for Life, we take a whole-person approach to managing chronic pain. Here are some strategies we use with our clients to help them navigate life with more ease, clarity, and empowerment.
Chronic pain is deeply connected to our emotional and mental states. Practices such as mindfulness, deep breathing, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation can interrupt the pain-stress cycle and offer relief.
Tip: Try taking 5 minutes a day to focus on your breath. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a count of three, and exhale through your mouth. This simple practice can reduce tension and increase your sense of calm.
CBT helps reframe unhelpful thought patterns that often accompany chronic pain. For example, thoughts like “I’ll never feel better” or “No one understands what I’m going through” can amplify distress. With CBT, you can challenge these thoughts and build more empowering ones.
At CRS for Life, we tailor CBT to each client, helping them shift from a place of frustration and isolation to one of resilience and agency.
While it might feel counterintuitive, gentle movement—like stretching, walking, or yoga—can reduce stiffness and improve mood. The key is consistency and listening to your body.
Small steps count. Even a five-minute walk or a few stretches in the morning can make a difference over time.
You don’t have to do this alone. Pain can feel isolating, but meaningful support—whether from friends, family, therapists, or support groups—can reduce the emotional burden and provide practical tools.
At CRS for Life, we offer a safe, judgment-free space where your experience is heard, validated, and supported.
Pushing through pain may feel necessary, but it can lead to burnout. Learning to say no, rest when needed, and advocate for your needs is essential for long-term management.
Our work together focuses on creating balance, not perfection. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s a foundational part of healing.
Chronic pain often requires a collaborative effort. We coordinate with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
Living with chronic pain is a daily challenge, but it does not define who you are. At CRS for Life, we are here to help you reconnect with your strengths, find your inner calm, and move forward—one mindful step at a time.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing pain for years, we’re here to walk alongside you. Together, we can explore what healing looks like for you.
Ready to take the next step in your pain management journey?
Visit www.crsforlife.com to learn more about how we can help.