Our bodies are designed to move. In fact, movement is what keeps our joints, muscles and bones flexible and strong.
However, sickle cell pain can cause you to sit, stand or move in uncomfortable ways. You may also spend a lot of time sitting or lying down when you are in pain. All of this sitting, lying down and holding the body in different positions can lead to increased muscle tension, greater muscle weakness and more pain.
The good news is that relaxation methods can help you manage pain by helping to relax tightened blood vessels and increasing blood flow. As a result, you are better able to take part in daily activities. Relaxation can also help you manage pain by reducing
stress, as it helps you feel calmer when you are upset, nervous or worried.
Research shows that relaxation can work better than medication to reduce some types of pain. Even better, relaxation methods are easy to learn!
Over the next few pages, you'll learn about:
