Pain does not always arrive suddenly. Sometimes it begins as a minor strain, an ache that seems manageable, or discomfort that is easy to ignore. Life gets busy, responsibilities come first, and many people convince themselves that the pain will eventually go away.
For one retired worker and grandmother, that decision led to years of living with chronic pain that continues to affect her daily life.
She spent many years working as a packer and building a new life in the United States. Like many immigrants, work was a priority. When she first experienced a strain in her foot and ankle, she continued working despite the discomfort.
"We were new in the country and wanted to work," she recalls.
What began as a foot strain eventually developed into swelling in her ankle. About seven to eight years ago, a physician drained fluid from the area, but the pain never fully disappeared. Looking back, she wonders whether addressing the problem earlier might have led to a different outcome.
Today, she describes her pain as a heavy sensation in her ankle and leg.
"It feels heavy," she says.
The pain follows a pattern. Mornings are usually manageable, but as the day progresses and she becomes more active, the discomfort increases. By afternoon, the pain becomes more noticeable, especially after household chores and daily activities. Sleep during night provides temporary relief, but the cycle often repeats the next day.
On a typical day, she rates her pain as a five out of ten. While some may consider that moderate, the impact on her life is significant.
One of the greatest losses has been her ability to walk comfortably. She enjoys spending time outdoors and taking her grandchildren to the park, but her pain limits how far she can go.
"I love walking, but I can't walk much anymore, so I have to sit."
The burden extends beyond physical limitations. Chronic pain has become a source of emotional stress, particularly when she travels or plans activities outside the home.
"Whenever I have to go somewhere or take a flight, I'm always thinking about how difficult it will be and how I will manage."
Despite years of discomfort, she has actively sought medical care. She has consulted healthcare providers, including orthopedic specialists and foot doctors. She has undergone MRIs, ultrasounds, X-rays, physical therapy, and used specialized boots. Yet she continues to search for answers and relief.
"Nothing seems to work, and nothing shows up in the screenings," she says.
Like many people living with chronic pain, she has developed ways to cope. She relies on oil massages and occasionally uses over-the-counter pain medications when needed. Over time, pain has become part of her everyday life.
This experience is not uncommon. Many individuals continue caring for their families, working, and fulfilling daily responsibilities while silently carrying the burden of chronic pain. When tests do not provide clear answers or treatments fail to bring relief, people may stop talking about their symptoms and simply learn to live with them.
When asked what message she would give to someone who believes their pain is not worth mentioning, her response is immediate:
"Address it right away."
Her advice highlights an important lesson. Persistent or worsening pain should be discussed with a healthcare provider rather than simply accepted as a normal part of life. Early conversations can help identify potential causes, guide treatment options, and improve quality of life.
Throughout her journey, faith has remained a source of strength. She places her trust in Gurbani (our Holy Scriptures, Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji) and continues to hope for a future with less pain and greater mobility.
Her story serves as a reminder that chronic pain is often invisible. The person standing next to us may be carrying a burden we cannot see. By listening to patient stories, encouraging open conversations, and recognizing pain as a significant health concern, we can help break the silence that so often surrounds chronic pain.
Key Takeaway: Persistent pain is not something that should be ignored. Speaking up, seeking medical advice, and advocating for your health can be important steps toward finding support, answers, and a better quality of life.
~Ekta Grewal
(Founder, Sikhs in Clinical Research)
