I think the embarrassment results because we're all used to putting up a front of strength and vigor to the people we know socially, Mr. D. Revealing that you're in pain makes you more vulnerable because you've revealed a chink in your "social armor" and also because you've been straightforward about your physical vulnerabilities, too. Physically you probably are weaker during the pain spells, and psychologically you've let people under the surface. The result is an inherently embarrassing situation.

At least, that is, until you realize that that honesty and vulnerability are probably in reality the greatest show of strength that someone can make. If someone's in pain or discomfort, emotionally or physically, and lets friends know that, that gives the friends the opportunity to see the real you and also come to your support (another way you're vulnerable). I'll take someone who's honest about what he's feeling any day over a faker or a person who wears a front. Makes me love them all the more because they trust me enough to reveal the truth.

I know what you mean, though. I'm waiting to be scheduled for some spinal surgery in a week or two. The problem I'm having causes muscle weakness and, at times, a strange pins-and-needles sensation in my arms and legs that gives me trouble taking regular steps. So I have a cane for when I have to walk alone. If I go to the grocery store, I try to find my way to a shopping cart quickly so I'll have a less conspicuous "walker." But parking in the special handicapped places when I'm feeling the muscle weakness and needing to walk slowly and with assistance make me feel embarrassed, too. Embarrassed and old. I've been amazed at how kind everyone is. But it's still hard to let people see!
birdgirl73 Reviewed by birdgirl73 on . Chronic pain....embarrasement? WTF? I just wanted to ask anybody else in chronic pain, or anybody with some knowledge on the psychology of the matter, if they experience or know of this. I know it's not really logical, but I'm finding lately in social situations that I feel really embarrased when I have to admit I'm in a lot of pain. I'll just be sitting with my friends hanging out, smoking a joint, whatever. Sometimes we have some people with us that are more aquaintances and that makes it even more akward. And suddenly I'm Rating: 5