Navigating Chronic Pain at the Bedside
When we think about chronic pain, we usually imagine nurses helping others manage their discomfort. But what happens when the nurse is struggling to navigate their own chronic pain and symptoms? For those in this position, you are not alone!
Throughout my career, I’ve often heard the phrase, “Nurses make the worst patients.” We are expected to be the caregivers, not the ones ‘complaining’. There is this unspoken expectation that nurses should just “push through” any personal discomfort.
But the reality is that nurses are getting injured and suffering from chronic pain every day. This journey can deeply impact our work-life balance, our ability to do the job we love, and our quality of life outside of work. It’s time to break the stigma and open up the conversation surrounding nurses and chronic pain.
I am one of the nurses who knows this struggle all too well.
In my Nurse Converse Podcast Episode, I dive into my personal experience and the challenges many of us face.
It is no surprise that nearly half of all healthcare workers report dealing with some sort of chronic pain. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses rank amongst the top 10 professions at risk for musculoskeletal injuries. As nurses, we often have to “make do” with resources available; especially when we might be short-staffed or lack proper equipment. Lifting and and transferring patients, especially when done incorrectly, are major contributors to lower back pain and injuries. My own chronic pain journey started with transferring a total care patient upon admission without the ideal equipment in place.
Common Risk Factors for Occupational Lower Back Pain:
- Heavy physical work or static work postures
- Lifting and forceful movements
- Pushing and pulling motions
- Bending and twisting of the trunk
The Physical and Emotional Toll of Chronic Pain
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, lonely, and frustrating. It can have physical, mental and emotional impacts on almost all aspects of your life:
- Impact on job performance
- Restrictions in mobility and daily activities
- Detachment from meaningful relationships
- Poor concentration and sleep disturbances
- Increased anxiety, depression, and burnout
In the darkest moments, I kept looking for the light, however small. I found strength in small joys and focused on anything that gave me purpose beyond the pain.
Between work schedules and family life, most health workers have a busy lifestyle and little time to spare. Beyond a lack of time, barriers such as the cost of treatment, transportation, and availability can prevent health providers from seeking care for their own chronic pain.
One of the biggest internal battles nurses struggle with is the guilt and pressure to push through the pain. Many of us may feel that our surroundings aren’t fully accommodating or don’t understand the challenges we face.
As caregivers, we’re conditioned to be strong for others. There is a stigma in healthcare around asking for help. But here is a reminder: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness! We have to prioritize our own physical and mental health just as we do for our patients. Advocate for yourself as you would for others!
- Clocked In
- Physical adjustments: Learn proper ergonomic techniques and use assistive devices (if available) to minimize strain.
- Pace yourself and delegate: Manage your workload and ask for help when needed.
- Open Communication: speak with your management team about pain concerns and explore possible accommodations or schedule adjustments.
- Clocked Out
- Prioritizing self-care habits: Incorporate physical therapy exercises, stretches, and activities that bring you joy.
- Practice mindfulness: Stay present and approach each moment with openness and curiosity.
*DISCLAIMER – Management for chronic pain disorders requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves assessing physical, psychological, environmental or social factors that influence your pain. Do your research and get the help you deserve!
While chronic pain is exhausting, trial and error with different therapies can help you find what works best for you. Every journey is unique and finding relief can take some time.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the power of community! We can ease the burden of chromic pain by leaning on others. Whether that is finding a support group or confiding in a trusted fRNd, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Sometimes, just being seen and heard is enough to remind you that others are on this journey with you.
You are not a burden. Your pain does not define you. You are deserving of everything this beautiful life has to offer. Together, we can work to change the narrative around chronic pain in nursing and create a culture that supports all caregivers – especially when they need care themselves.
Happy to be in your coRNer! Let’s connect (:
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