It’s that time of year again! The holiday season is here along with the anxiety many of us feel trying to find the perfect gift. If you have a loved one struggling with pain, this list can help you narrow down the endless products you see promoted during the holidays. If you made the “Nice List” this year and want to treat yourself…here are some items that you can ask for to get you through the New Year with a little less pain, whether it’s in the office, traveling, or in the comfort of your home.

For Long Hours at Santa’s Workshop

One thing about chronic pain patients is that it is hard to sit still for a long period of time. Your muscles become tense and this leads to even more pain. Here are some gifts for the workplace:

Ergonomic chair
Having a chair to sit on that moves promotes motion all day and strengthens your core which is key to reducing back pain. Many chairs come in different forms from adjustable, backless, and even ball-based which has an exercise ball as the base of the chair.

 

 

Massage chair
Having a portable massage pad that you can take on and off of your chair at work can be a great relaxation tool for work stress and pain.

 

 

For Relaxing at the North Pole

Memory foam pillow
Since sleeping may be your only escape from chronic pain, having an uncomfortable sleeping position can leave you with more unnecessary pain in the morning. Having a memory foam pillow can help your muscles relax and help you stay asleep.

Arthritis Gloves
A great stocking stuffer! While it may not be the most fashionable accessory next summer, these gloves provide the compression and warmth that can benefit your arthritic hands.

 

 

Inversion Table
A lifesaver for chronic back pain, an inversion table can help to release stress in your back caused by squeezing on your disks. This table may also help to speed up blood flow and promote hydration to your disks, allowing the healing process to accelerate.

 

 

Therapy
Ask for the gift of a therapy you’ve never tried. Techniques like acupuncture, various massages, or a yoga class can help with your pain. Acupuncture targets where it hurts, massages calm your muscles, and yoga relaxes you while strengthening your core.

 

HoMedics SoundSpa Sound Machine
Create a peaceful sleep environment with this sophisticated yet cost efficient sound machine. The HoMedics SoundSpa can help you to fall asleep faster and wake completely rested. Also a perfect addition to a nursery should anyone you know have a little bundle of joy coming for Christmas!

For a Long Sleigh Ride

 

Heating pad
Heating pads can be a miracle worker for pain. The thermal effect increases blood flow, and may increase the extensibility of tissues rich in collagen. Whether you choose an electric pad, a heat therapy neck and shoulder wrap, or a microwavable rice heating pad, they will all provide that essential warmth and comfort you need at home, work, or on the go. The Carex Bed Buddy shown here can also be cooled in the freezer for reducing inflammatory pain.

 

Memory travel pillow
We’ve all seen these before. It might seem obvious, but these pillows can help any frequent traveler minimize pain while traveling by plane, train, or automobile. The pillow keeps your neck stable, minimizing muscle strain while giving you the rest that you need.

 

 

The IMAK Pain Relief Mask
This IMAK mask is perfect for soothing comfort of eye strain, migraines, and headaches after a long trip. The mask is filled with massaging ergo beads and is also washable for easy maintenance.

The holidays are a time to relax, rejuvenate, and renew. Make sure you are taking time out to take care of yourself and your loved ones. If you or your loved one deals with pain, consider the wish list above so that your holidays can be a joyous occasion for everyone involved. Your health is your greatest gift… make sure you take care of yourself this holiday season!