One of the first set of questions that new patients ask when reviewing their health and exam findings is, "How did this happen," followed by, "What pills can I take, vitamins do I need, and exercises or stretches can I do to fix this?" We all want to know why we are experiencing certain problems, but deep down we have the answer, and it usually has something to do with our past. It may take a few days, but eventually people figure it out. Then they want an instant cure or fix. They have a Coming to Jesus moment where they wish to atone for past faults and mistakes, and expect immediate satisfaction/relief. I love the enthusiasm, and the genuine desire to get it done. However, there are two things generally missing, the first is a resolve to do what it takes, for however long it takes, to right the sinking ship. The second, is an understanding of time.
It reminds me of the movie Funny Farm, where Burt Reynolds decides to commit suicide by swimming as far out into the ocean as possible, and drown. When he gets to the point of quitting, he realizes that there is too much to live for, and he needs to get back to shore. At that point, when he knows that he can't make it alone, he begins to promise to God that if he makes it back and saves him, that he would give half of everything that he owns to charity. So he swims, and as he gets closer, he starts to change the deal. "God, remember when I promised you half? Would 25% be okay? After all, I am going to live a better life anyways." And so it goes.
I often see this from patients. They either get frustrated by the time it takes to regain their health, or they lose the initial desire and commitment to truly correct their problems and lead a healthy life. Patients initially see the wisdom in sticking to a treatment plan that gets them feeling better, but more importantly, helps them correct their health problem. This also helps minimize the long term health complications that they want to avoid. This sounds great, and boy are they enthused.
So what happens? As soon as the pain starts to go away, then their lives are way too busy to take care of themselves. The kids need to be picked up, soccer games, school activities, walking the dog, and so on. When in pain, people do almost anything to avoid it. However, when things get better, it is no longer a priority, and thus forgotten. What happens is that they lose the big picture, and forget to keep things in perspective. How well does a household run when mom is sick, or dad is injured? Not well at all. If we don't take the time for ourselves, and keep our lives and health in perspective, we are guaranteeing a failure of it at some time.
Realize that most health issues don't occur overnight, and that there are no instant fixes in this world. If someone is promising that, you know the old saying, if it seems too good to be true, then it must be. The longer you stick with a program, the better the results you get. Quitting in life is not an option. Committed, consistent actions give the highest and best results. Don't let excuses keep you from living the life of your dreams.
-Dr. Clare
