Pain > Pain Management Options
Pain Management Options
As we have described, pain is a complex system involving many parts of the body, the nerves, and the brain. The actual body part that feels painful is only one small component of the whole system. Successful treatment of severe or chronic pain must consider each part of the pain system. Making changes to the pain-influencing factors on the previous page may make a significant difference to our pain. Other treatment options can be used, and are listed here in order of importance:
Education on the Pain System
There is strong evidence showing that if you understand pain and how your pain alarm system works you will experience less pain.
Physical Activity
As discussed previously, being as physically active and energetic as possible is one of the most helpful strategies for managing our pain.
Type:
Resistance Exercise (lifting weights)
Aerobic Exercise
Green Exercise - exercise in the presence of nature
Amount:
30 - 60 minutes of moderate to high intensity exercise on most days
Emotional and Psychological Retraining
Almost anyone with severe, chronic pain will benefit from spending some time with a professional psychologist or counsellor, developing strategies to deal with the pain in a more helpful way.
Medications
Many different pain medications are available, with different chemical effects on your pain alarm system, and different side-effects or risks. Please discuss the optimal use of pain medications with your doctor.
Mental Health
People with anxiety or depression have been shown to have a higher risk of chronic pain. Getting appropriate medical attention and support for our mental health can be a significant part of managing our pain better.
Medical and Surgical intervention
This may be necessary if a specific diagnosis or pathology has been identified, but in many cases of chronic pain additional intervention raises the risks of side-effects or flare-ups, and should be approached with caution.
Speak to your Physiotherapist, Doctor or Surgeon about which pain management strategies will be best for you. Our Helpful Resources may help point you in the right direction.