Dr. Jordan Sudberg’s Guide to Coping with Pain Flare-Ups: What You Need to Know

Living with chronic pain means that many patients face not only persistent discomfort but also sudden and intense flare-ups that can disrupt daily life. These flare-ups—periods when pain dramatically worsens—can be unpredictable and overwhelming, leaving people feeling frustrated, anxious, and unsure how to respond.

Pain management specialist Dr. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes that while pain flare-ups are challenging, understanding their causes and having strategies to manage them can make a significant difference in quality of life. In this post, we’ll explore what pain flare-ups are, why they happen, and practical coping mechanisms recommended by Dr. Sudberg to help patients regain control when pain spikes occur.

 

What Are Pain Flare-Ups?

Pain flare-ups are temporary episodes of increased pain intensity that stand out from a person’s baseline level of chronic pain. They may last hours, days, or sometimes even weeks, and can affect any type of chronic pain condition—arthritis, neuropathy, fibromyalgia, back pain, and more.

Dr. Sudberg explains:

“Flare-ups are a normal part of many chronic pain conditions. They’re the body’s way of signaling something is off balance, whether due to physical, emotional, or environmental triggers.”

Recognizing that flare-ups are part of the chronic pain journey can help patients approach them with less fear and more preparedness.

 

Common Triggers for Pain Flare-Ups

Understanding what triggers flare-ups can empower patients to prevent or minimize their severity. Dr. Sudberg identifies several common contributors:

1. Physical Overexertion

Pushing the body too hard during activities like exercise, work, or even household chores can trigger flare-ups. Sometimes even small increases in physical demand can overwhelm sensitive tissues or nerves.

2. Stress and Emotional Strain

Emotional stress, anxiety, or depression can intensify pain perception. The brain’s pain processing centers are closely linked to emotional centers, meaning psychological distress often worsens physical pain.

3. Weather Changes

Many chronic pain sufferers report flare-ups during changes in weather, especially cold, damp, or highly humid conditions. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, barometric pressure changes likely affect joint and nerve sensitivity.

4. Poor Sleep

Sleep disruptions not only exacerbate fatigue but also increase pain sensitivity. Chronic pain and poor sleep often create a vicious cycle that triggers flare-ups.

5. Medication Changes

Adjustments in pain medication, missed doses, or interactions with other drugs can result in worsening pain.

6. Infections or Illness

Even minor illnesses or infections can inflame the body and trigger pain flares.

 

Immediate Strategies for Managing a Flare-Up

When a pain flare-up hits, Dr. Sudberg suggests several immediate actions to help manage the intensity:

1. Practice Gentle Movement

While rest is important, complete inactivity can lead to stiffness and worsened pain. Gentle stretching or light walking can maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tension.

“Finding the balance between rest and movement is key,” Dr. Sudberg says. “Listening to your body and moving within comfortable limits can prevent flare-ups from escalating.”

2. Use Heat or Cold Therapy

Applying heat can relax muscles and improve circulation, while cold packs help reduce inflammation and numb pain. Experiment to see which works best for your flare-up.

3. Engage in Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery can calm the nervous system and reduce the emotional intensity of pain.

“Stress amplifies pain signals, so calming the mind directly influences pain levels,” Dr. Sudberg notes.

4. Adjust Medications as Directed

If flare-ups are frequent or severe, consult your healthcare provider about adjusting your pain management regimen. Do not increase or change medications without professional guidance.

5. Avoid Additional Triggers

During a flare-up, it’s best to avoid activities or environments known to worsen pain, such as cold weather, heavy lifting, or stressful situations.

 

Long-Term Strategies to Minimize Flare-Ups

Beyond immediate relief, preventing flare-ups through lifestyle changes and self-care is essential. Dr. Sudberg recommends:

1. Regular, Low-Impact Exercise

Activities like swimming, yoga, and walking help maintain joint function and reduce inflammation without overstressing the body.

2. Healthy Sleep Hygiene

Prioritize consistent sleep routines, create a calming bedtime environment, and seek treatment for sleep disorders if necessary.

3. Stress Management

Incorporate stress-reduction techniques daily, including mindfulness, counseling, or hobbies that promote relaxation.

4. Balanced Nutrition

Anti-inflammatory diets rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce systemic inflammation.

5. Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration supports tissue health and may help prevent pain flares.

6. Regular Medical Follow-Up

Work closely with your pain specialist to monitor symptoms and adjust treatments proactively.

 

The Importance of a Support System

Pain flare-ups can feel isolating and discouraging. Dr. Sudberg stresses the value of emotional support:

“Having friends, family, or support groups to talk to can reduce the psychological burden of pain and improve coping.”

Connecting with others who understand chronic pain fosters resilience and emotional well-being.

 

When to Seek Medical Attention

While flare-ups are expected, some situations require prompt medical evaluation:

• Sudden, severe pain that doesn’t improve with home care
• New neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder/bowel control
• Signs of infection such as fever, redness, or swelling
• Medication side effects or concerns

Dr. Sudberg advises:

“Never hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you’re worried or if your pain changes dramatically.”

 

Final Thoughts: Empowering Yourself Through Knowledge and Preparation

Pain flare-ups are challenging, but they don’t have to control your life. With awareness, preparation, and support, you can reduce their frequency and severity.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg encourages patients:

“Understanding your pain and knowing how to respond empowers you to live better despite chronic pain. Be patient with yourself, and lean on your medical team and support network.”

If you or a loved one experiences chronic pain flare-ups, reach out to a pain management specialist like Dr. Sudberg to develop a personalized flare-up action plan tailored to your needs.