Stop Pain

Book excerpt: Take back control of your life from chronic pain with this comprehensive guide to pain management strategies and treatment options, from a renowned sports-medicine specialist. If you are one of the estimated 50 million people who suffer with chronic pain, you know the impact it has on your life. But now, with advances in our understanding of pain, relief is possible with self-care options that will minimize your dependence on narcotics or medical procedures. In Stop Pain, Vijay Vad, M.D., teaches you the ins and outs of pain—bringing to light the links between inflammation and other factors that increase pain. Dr. Vad lays out concrete strategies for dealing with the most common pain problems—from stress relief techniques to an anti-inflammatory diet. He then addresses the possible risks and rewards of conventional and complementary treatments for chronic pain, including prescription medications, surgical intervention, physical therapy, acupuncture, and breathing exercises. A comprehensive overview of all the ways in which you can alleviate pain, Stop Pain will open your eyes to the many ways you can take back control of your life. [Dr. Vad’s] advice on eating, exercise, alternative treatments, and medical options are truly helpful. I am not only a patient of Dr. Vad, I’m a fan.” —Joy Behar, comedian and host of The View