Does pain management give pain meds? In a word, yes. If you suffer from chronic pain, you have probably already tried at least a few forms of pain control. Whether it’s a special drug, a hot pack, a heating pad, a splint or even a breathing device, the more you can control the pain, the better your quality of life will be. So, does pain management really give pain meds?
What most people think about pain management?
When most people think about pain management doctors, they think in terms of pain killers. There are of course many different types of pain management medications that you can take advantage of. These include analgesics (e.g., ibuprofen), acetaminophen (Tylenol), prostaglandins (epicardioid), NSAIDs (iatrogen blockers) and narcotics (analgesics). But pain management by definition involves more than just medication. Let’s look at some of the other considerations that may affect your ability to manage chronic pain:
Measurability
How well do you really know your body? Even a trained medical person can’t prescribe the exact dosage and the precise length of time that something is supposed to be held down to. This is where the help of a skilled pain management professional comes into play – he or she can determine how much pain you’re actually experiencing, as opposed to how much someone else would perceive it.
Non-pharmacologic methods of pain management
There are a number of non-pharmacologic ways of managing pain. Acupuncture is one. Massage therapy is another. Biofeedback and neuro feedback are also part of the pain management equation. Indeed, there are pain meds and biofeedback products on the market that combine different techniques for pain management.
Pain management by prescription
When it comes to pain, you may need a prescription. If so, the effectiveness of some pain meds may be limited. That’s why your doctor is the one who makes that call. The important thing is not to take the responsibility lightly. Prescription pain management has its benefits but it also carries some risks.
Pain management by therapy
Just as with the prescription option, you’ll have to get a prescription for pain management with this method. Many times, a patient will receive pain medications and undergo cognitive behavioral therapy or psychotherapy. These methods help the individual deal with their pain both on a cognitive level and a behavioral one. In the end, it could very well lead to successful pain management without pain meds. However, the downside is that these therapies can take months or even years. It’s really up to you whether to go this route.
Pain management by exercise
While pain meds are effective, some pain is also caused by muscle stiffness, which can be helped by physical therapy. However, if the pain is too severe, you may want to consult with a physician first. He or she may decide that medication isn’t appropriate. After that, there are quite a few exercises that can help manage chronic and acute pain. As an alternative to pain meds and therapy, many doctors recommend this method, which can also have some short term side effects.
It’s important to remember that pain management is only one part of the picture when it comes to pain relief. You still need to get plenty of sleep and be sure to keep yourself healthy in other ways. Sometimes, the pain meds alone simply aren’t enough. Check with your doctor to determine what you need to do. Even if pain management gives you temporary relief, don’t overlook other treatment options because of it.
Do your research
Although it’s true that pain meds can give you relief, you should still consider other treatment options, such as physical therapy. You might feel like pain meds are your only option, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you do as much research as possible before you make any decisions about pain management.
Pain management by diet
If you’re taking pain meds, it might sound like you’re doing something unhealthy…and that’s true. But your body also needs certain vitamins and minerals to function at its best, and taking pain meds could actually be harming you. You might think you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals through your diet, but your body may not be getting enough. Check with your doctor to make sure you’re getting everything you need.
There is no one right answer when it comes to pain management. In fact, some people feel that pain relief is a good thing…if it’s done the right way. If you have chronic pain or injury that won’t go away, talk to your doctor about your pain management options.
