Pain Management Options

For many people pain is a part of their everyday lives. There is no way “around” the pain it will always be there. The traditional treatment option of pain killers can cause long-term health problems, as well as the risk of addiction.

In the case of many elderly people that rely on these pain medications the in home medical provider may withhold the medications, or just steal them outright. So the question then is what are the other options to deal with the pain?

The Non opioid medicinal options are as follows.

• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Antidepressants,  these can help with sleeping and alleviate pain
• Anti-seizure medications, this can be very effective in treating pain that is related to nerve damage or injury.
• Steroids, like dexamethasone and prednisone, to help with inflammation and pain

Therapy. The use of therapy can help to heal the mind and body. Using a mix of these treatments can be effective.  

• Physical therapy doing the right kind of exercises is the best way to help alleviate the pain. In the care of a physical therapist, they will tailor an exercise program that is not too strenuous and will deliver the best results by slowly building up strength and tolerance. When trying to do this therapy on your own many people will stop because it hurts too much.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy This is essentially a way to learn how to deal with the pain. You will learn where the pain comes from, what aggravates the pain most, as well as ways to deal with the pain that you have in your life.

Other pain management options. There are many other options that can help physically and emotionally when dealing with pain.

• TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) therapy
• Meditation
• Relaxation techniques
• Visual imagery, as simple as picturing a peaceful scene, for example
• Biofeedback, which teaches control over muscle tension, temperature, heart rate and more
• Heat and cold therapy
• Manipulation and massage

Seeking help with your chronic pain issues before they destroy your ability to function is the best option out there. Talk to you doctor, don’t be afraid to seek alternative options. Everyone experiences pain in a different way. There is no promise of living pain free, but there is always another option.