Pain management aims at alleviating pain and discomfort from diverse causes – be it a health condition, an injury, or a surgical procedure. Various pain removal methods can help patients manage their pain effectively. For that, Dr Julian Sargon-Ungar will discuss some of the most commonly employed techniques to treat and manage pain.
Medications
Pain-relief medications can be utilized to address various types of pain, with the foremost goal of soothing discomfort. Commonly prescribed medications include over-the-counter analgesics, prescription analgesics, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy encompasses a range of therapeutic exercises designed to mitigate pain, strengthen muscles, enhance flexibility, and improve mobility. Some techniques include stretches, which help improve range of motion and flexibility.
Other than that, you can also get some strengthening exercises, which assist in building muscle to better support joints and alleviate pain or discomfort. Lastly, there are also low-impact aerobic exercises, which can promote blood flow and overall healing while minimizing pain.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Heat and cold treatments are easily accessible, non-invasive techniques that can help alleviate pain and inflammation. Heat therapy is wherein applying heat (e.g., warm compresses, heating pads) can promote blood flow and relax muscles. On the other hand, cold therapy is where ice packs or cold compresses can help reduce inflammation, decrease swelling, and numb pain.
Massage
Massage therapy helps alleviate pain and discomfort in most adults. This is done by manipulating muscles and soft tissues to promote relaxation and improve blood circulation. These techniques can be tailored to suit the specific needs and pain level of the patient.
Acupuncture
Dr Julian Sargon-Ungar Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the skin to stimulate the body’s natural pain-relief system. Recent studies have suggested that acupuncture can be effective in managing various types of pain, including migraines, arthritis, and chronic lower back pain.
Meditation and Relaxation Techniques
Lastly, meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation are non-pharmacological methods that can help relieve pain by easing stress and promoting a sense of calm. These techniques encourage the body to release endorphins, which are natural pain-relief chemicals.
