The treatment options available for chronic pain today are as varied and diverse as the causes of the pain. From prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications to acupuncture, and mind/body techniques, there are many approaches to treat and alleviate cases of chronic pain. Keep reading to learn some of the most common options used today here.
Drug Therapy – Prescription and Nonprescription
One option that may be used if you were to visit a pain doctor near me is drug therapy. For example, if you suffer from mild pain, it may be relieved by over-the-counter medications. However, if these aren’t effective, then your doctor may prescribe stronger medicines, including anti-anxiety drugs, muscle relaxants, prescription NSAIDs, and stronger painkillers.
Trigger Point Injections
Another viable treatment for pain is trigger point injections. This procedure is used for treating painful areas of your muscles that contain trigger points, or muscle knots that are formed when your muscles don’t relax. When this procedure is done, a doctor will use a small needle to inject a local anesthetic that often includes a steroid into the trigger point. With this treatment, the trigger point is made inactive and your pain is alleviated.
Tens
Tens, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy, is a process that uses electrical stimulation to alleviate pain. During this treatment, a low-voltage electric current is sent via electrodes that are on your skin close to the area of pain. The electricity produced will stimulate the nerves in the area that’s affected and sends a signal to the brain that helps to “scramble” the normal pain signals.
While there are many other treatment options, these are some of the most popular that are used today. It’s a good idea to work with your doctor to ensure you get the best treatment for your needs, regardless of what they are.
