Medical Challenges In A Quarantine

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has taken us all by surprise. It has come as a rude shock to the entire world. Amongst the many challenges the unprecedented lockdown and quarantine have imposed on us, access to medical care is one of the biggest challenges we are facing.

The new lockdown rules restrict anyone without an emergency to visit hospitals, have surgeries or diagnostic tests. Patients with chronic pain cannot undergo physiotherapy for pain relief. Spending inordinate amounts of time within the four walls of your house with family members can also, sometimes, be a stressful factor.

But all is not lost. It is entirely up to us as to how we adapt to the given situation and manage chronic pain and other medical ailments.

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Telemedication And Internet To The Rescue

With direct medical appointments totally out of question, the current situation has opened its doors to online and telephone consultation with your doctors. Here’s how the world is making the most of it:

• Telemedicine is the new norm. Most doctors are available on phone to give you medical advice and prescriptions to temporarily alleviate any pain or easily treatable medical condition.
• There is virtual access to counselors and psychologists who are ready to help with emotional challenges in this difficult period.
• Patients with chronic back and neck pain can always seek the help of physiotherapists. Online physiotherapy sessions are also available.
• Accessing a pharmacy to buy medicines is perhaps the only aspect that has no restrictions in most parts of the world. So never skip your medication and aggravate the pain.

Caring For Physical Fitness

The stay-at-home orders might’ve restricted you from visiting the gym and slightly thrown your fitness schedule off gear. Some people with chronic pain often follow their own fitness regime to keep themselves physically active. There are brilliant ways to make it happen even at home:

• Connect virtually with your gym, yoga, or Pilates instructor. Although you might not have the necessary gym accessories, you can make the most of what is available at home.
• Set a regular schedule to work out and stick to it diligently.
• Get physically active by cleaning the house, watering plants, gardening, etc.
• Do group activities as a family. It is a great way to bond and it makes the workout all the more fun.
• Join an online support group or physical fitness groups and find inspiration to keep yourself going.
• Restrict yourself from overdoing any new physical activity.

Being Mentally Fit

A lockdown and quarantine can trigger anxiety and panic. It creates a sense of uncertainty for people who require the services of the outside world to deal with chronic pain. Constant worrying and panicking can be more devastating than the chronic pain itself.

Medically trained counselors and psychologists are prepared to offer counseling and support over the phone or via video-conferencing. Apart from this, here’s what you can do:

• Stay positive. Catch up with friends and family via video-conferencing.
• Take up new hobbies.
• Stay away from news that is not right for you.

Chronic pain can be managed in spite of all the restrictions. HAMSA, the best Rehabilitation Centre in Chennai, has a team of expert physiotherapists and counselors who are ready to help you in this period of crisis. Reach out to them at +91-6379-133-621.