Better or worse?

Dear Patient, 

When I’m making a diagnostic assessment, sometimes I’ll ask what makes the condition better or worse. 

Is your foot pain better in the morning or worse? Does moving your shoulder make it feel better or worse? Is your acid reflux better after eating or worse?

Answers to these questions can point us in the right direction. Pain that feels better with the application of an ice pack is likely due to an acute inflammatory condition. Pain that improves after a hot bath is probably the result of tense muscles. 

We can apply this better or worse question to any aspect of our lives. Sometimes we’ll be engaged in an activity without stopping to think about why we’re doing it. Do you feel better or worse after scrolling through your social media feed, or saying yes to something you’d rather not do, or pouring yourself another glass of wine? What about after taking your dog to the park, or making your bed, or calling a friend you haven’t talked to in a while? 

Try taking a beat to ask yourself the better or worse question. Spend more time doing the things that make you feel better and less with those that make you feel worse. Sometimes it really is that simple. 

Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist