Pain can negatively impact relaxation and sexual arousal. There are several strategies that can be used for pain management. Working with your doctor on medication management may be one option. Talk with your occupational therapist as well for more information on other pain management strategies that may be helpful to you and positioning strategies that may help to reduce pain and spasticity interference. For general information on pain, this website created by the United Spinal Association has some information.
Pain Management Strategies
Exercise/Movement
Sometimes, exercising can help to reduce pain. Talk with your occupational or physical therapist on strategies you can use for exercising to help reduce pain.
Relaxation
This may seem difficult to do when you are in pain, but relaxing your mind, muscles, and breathing may help to reduce your pain. Talk with your occupational or physical therapist on relaxation and breathing techniques to help with pain management.
Shifting Focus
Focusing your mind and energy on activities such as hobbies, watching TV, or other enjoyable activities may help reduce your attention to pain. Talk with your occupational or physical therapists on strategies you can use to help shift your focus away from pain.
Medication
Exploring medication options with your doctor may provide you the pain management you need. You should not start or stop any medications before first speaking with your doctor. Medication should be taken at a time to maximize its effectiveness prior to sexual activity. Your doctor can talk to you about the best strategies to use with medication. For tips on how to talk to your doctor about your sexuality, take a look at this video link.
Print Out
Click here for a print out of pain management techniques that may be beneficial to you. Talk with your doctor, nurse, and occupational or physical therapist about these strategies and explore what options may work for you.