Comprehensive Guide To Pain Management at IPA Pharmacies
It is estimated that 1 in 5 Australians are living with chronic pain ¹. However, this figure increases with our ageing population to 1 in 3 in people aged 65 and over. Whether it’s back pain, neck pain, joint pain or arthritic pain, we know the one thing that you want most is pain relief. Not surprisingly, it is usually beneficial to understand the root cause of your pain.
Understanding Pain: Causes and Management
Pain management is a complex condition and involves both sensory and emotional components. There can be a large variation in how people perceive and tolerate pain, as pain is subjective, and every person will experience pain differently. To best understand and support your pain symptoms, there are few key questions that can determine which approach best suits you.
Ask yourself:
- Has the pain changed over time?
- Does your pain interfere with sleep?
- Is your pain affecting your ability to do activities such as walking the dog, play with your kids or working from home?
Once you’ve asked the right questions to assess your pain, treating it will be that much less painful. When it comes to pain management solutions, there are four categories that encompass pain relief treatment.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Medicines
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication can help relieve pain or lower a fever. Over-the-counter means you can buy these medicines without a prescription. The most common types of OTC pain medicines are paracetamol, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ibuprofen.
Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines include:
- Paracetamol
- Anti-inflammatories
- Combination products such as Nuromol or Maxigesic
- Topical rubs and creams such as Pain Away and Voltaren
- Pain patches such as Nervoderm
Non-medical Products
Some people experience pain relief from treatments that topical products that are applied directly to the place of your pain.
Non medical products include:
- Heat patches such as Deep Heat
- Braces and strapping
- Ice packs
- Wheat packs
Natural Anti-inflammatory Supplements
While some circumstances may require the use of prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, you can often find significant relief through natural pain relievers, such as supplements.
Embracing natural methods to alleviate pain and inflammation can offer numerous benefits. However, it’s crucial to remember that these natural remedies can sometimes interact with other medications you may be taking.3
Natural anti-inflammatory supplements:
- Magnesium
- Omega-3
- Vitamin D
Mind-Body Approach
If you have chronic pain, it is important to learn to manage it effectively without relying on medicines. Evidence shows that people with chronic pain who are actively involved in managing their pain on a daily basis may have less disability than those who are engaged in passive therapies, such as taking medication or surgery. It is important to keep a positive attitude until you find a mix that works for you.4
Mind-body approaches include:
- Daily stretching and walking
- Daily relaxation techniques
- Practicing mindfulness
- Improved sleep
- Diet and exercise
How can your local IPA Pharmacist help?
If you feel like you have tried everything, visit your local IPA Pharmacy and have a chat with your local Pharmacist about the best pain management options for you. In addition to offering products suggestions, there are also a range of Health Services related to pain management such as Medication Reviews, Home Medication Reviews, Professional Services.
References:
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Chronic pain in Australia. AIHW, 2020.
- http://painaustralia.staging3.webforcefive.com.au/static/uploads/files/painaust-factsheet10-final-wfecivdrvvtm.pdf
- https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/non-drug-approaches-to-chronic-pain.asp
- http://painaustralia.staging3.webforcefive.com.au/static/uploads/files/painaust-factsheet10-final-wfecivdrvvtm.pdf
Important Information
The information provided on this website is shared in good faith for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any specific treatment, product, or service, nor is it a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals regarding matters related to your health, wellbeing, or other personal concerns. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, we cannot accept responsibility for any injury, loss, damage, or consequences resulting from its use.