Experiencing chronic pain can be overwhelming but it doesn't have to be. Even incorporating just one of these little steps can make a big difference to your life.

• Accept the pain - learn all you can about your physical condition. Understand that you will have to learn to deal with the fact of pain in your life.

• Learn to set priorities - look beyond your pain to the things that are important in your life. Setting priorities can help lead you back into a more active life.

• Set realistic goals - set goals that are within your power to accomplish or break a larger goal down into manageable steps.

• Recognise your emotions - by acknowledging and dealing with your feelings, you can reduce stress and decrease the pain you feel.

• Learn to relax - relaxation exercises are one way of reclaiming control of your body and managing your pain.

• Exercise - most people with chronic pain fear exercise. However, unused muscles feel more pain than toned, flexible ones so identify a modest exercise programme that you can do safely, with the help of your physiotherapist.

• Lose weight  - for every 10 pounds that you are over your recommended body weight, it is equivalent to putting 30-50 pounds of extra weight through your joints. Therefore, losing even a small amount of weight can have a positive effect on your pain levels.

• Adopt a positive attitude - having a positive attitude, rather than a negative one, helps us have the confidence to deal with life's challenges.

• Problem solve - Learn to logically sort through all practical and emotional difficulties

• Reach out - know who can help and support you e.g. health professionals, support groups, organisations etc., and where and how to get the support you need.