Treating chronic pain can be draining. This is especially true when it comes to pain that lasts for more than 3 months. Remember, the normal healing process should take around 3 months. However, pain that takes longer than 3 months is considered chronic. Also, there are lots of misconceptions, fake ideas, as well as misleading opinions regarding chronic pain management. This article is going to demystify common chronic pain management myths out there.
The Right Medication Alone Can Cure Chronic Pain
Medication alone doesn’t relieve pain. It’s a myth. Besides medication, you also need pain relievers to alleviate different types of pain. According to the American Chronic Pain Association, 25 to 30 percent of pain-relieving medication includes pain relievers. Thus, you should use additional pain management treatment to deal with chronic pain. Even more, you need to learn a myriad of self-care skills to deal with pain. Still more, using brain processes such as cognitive behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques should be used to treat pain. Other popular pain treatment techniques include guided imagery as well as mindfulness. Remember, optimal pain management is all about team effort and effective communication.
Chronic Pain Care Program Should Be Left To the Doctors
Of course, doctors have the skills and expertise when it comes to pain management. But that doesn’t mean leaving everything to your doctor. According to pain and spine fort Washington Maryland, you should get involved when designing an elaborate pain management program. You are the only person who understands the pain that’s eating you. For instance, if you are depressed (which can aggravate pain), you are the only person who knows the route cause of that feeling. Learn how to beat the depression if you want to deal with that pain. In a nutshell, pain management decisions shouldn’t be left to the doctor. You should get involved in the process if you need optimal results.
More Medications, Better Results
Drug overdose is dangerous. Plus, more medication doesn’t mean better results when it comes to pain management. Of course, taking medication can help manage pain. However, it’s important to stick to your doctor’s prescription. Overdose can lead to more problems. It can lead to severe side effects. So, don’t let anyone lie to you that taking more medication can lead to more results. For instance, don’t combine opioids with other medications. If you have to, consult with your doctor. Combining opioids with other medications can lead to conditions such as respiratory depression.
According to experts, it’s advisable to take less over time. Also, try alternative therapies like non-pharmacologic as well as self-pain management strategies. Doing so will relieve the pain while improving the quality of your life.
Remember, pain management programs are designed to relieve pain symptoms. So, don’t try masking the pain. Instead, correct the cause of that pain.
Proper Opioid Prescription Cannot Lead To Addiction
Opioids are like any other drugs. Prolonged use may lead to additional problems. For instance, prolonged opioid use is linked to tolerance, physical dependence, and even addiction. Still more, even the most moral people in society can have an opioid addiction. Thus, before taking these medications, it’s important to consider the benefits versus the side effects.
However, if you have to take opioids, follow your doctor’s instructions. Don’t exceed the time limit. Dispose of excess opioids safely. Don’t leave them in your house. You may be tempted into taking these medications—potentially leading to opioid addiction.
Stay Way from Pain Related Medications
Of course, pain medications are associated with different risks. However, that doesn’t mean that you cannot take them. Certain pain conditions require pain medications. However, you should be particular when taking these medications. In particular, you should know when to quit, change, or stop taking them. Also, when deciding to take pain medications, it’s important to weigh the benefits versus the risks. Take them when the benefits outweigh the risks. Also, before taking any medication, consult your personal physician. In most cases, these medications can be individualized to suit your explicit needs.
Narcotics Are Inherently Not Good For Your Body
In 2008, a report on opioid use in the US was released. In the report, it was documented that over 15,000 passed on because of an opioid overdose. Since then, several myths have been documented. Among them is that the use of opioids is inherently not good for the body. But that’s just a myth.
According to medical experts, opioids are not good. At the same time, they aren’t bad. Their use can relieve pain. However, they come with risks. Industry players should appreciate, communicate, and deal with these issues when using and prescribing opioids. Thus, don’t consider opioids inherently evil. They can be lifesaving to some folks. Thus, doctors should prescribe opioids based on the patient’s condition.
Back Pain Is Back Pain
This is a myth. This myth is common in many patients, certain specialists, as well as some primary care doctors. It’s important to note that primary care doctors like neurologists don’t have in-depth knowledge of all matters back pain. They don’t have the skills to detect the cause of back pain. Thus, it’s important to visit a specialist when trying to figure out the cause of your back pain. There are different types of back pains. Each back pain has its own cause. From mechanical to nerve pains—there are different types of back pain. Understanding the categorization will inform your decision when choosing a pain treatment method.
Other Pain Management Myths
The following are common pain management myths you should familiarize yourself with:
- Pain management and treatment is only epidurals
- People think that surgery is the easiest way to fix a back pain
- Any medical specialist can perform pain management
The Bottom-Line
Chronic pain is troubling. That’s why you should have the right information to manage and treat it effectively and safely. In particular, you should familiarize yourself with common misinformation, myths, and fake opinions when it comes to pain management and treatment. The above are common chronic pain management and treatment myths you should avoid.
