Chronic pain can be disruptive to daily life, no matter what’s causing it. Whether you have lingering pain after an injury or are suffering from a chronic condition, constant discomfort impacts daily life. Understanding how to manage chronic pain can help you be proactive in your own wellness.
In contrast to acute, short-term pain from an injury or surgery, chronic pain is pain that lasts for more than three months. (1) Some of the common types of chronic pain include:
The ways people experience chronic pain can also vary significantly, including sensations such as burning, stiffness, and aching. Chronic pain is also associated with other symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue. Combined with physical pain, these additional mental stressors can make daily life challenging for anybody. (1)
Unless directly related to an injury or surgery, the cause of chronic pain may be unknown, and it may take some time to identify the reason. (1) Regardless of where you are in the journey, knowing the options for how to manage chronic pain can be beneficial.
Many providers recommend taking a multi-pronged approach to chronic pain management, sometimes also referred to as comprehensive pain management, including medication, various types of therapies, and changes to your lifestyle.
Treating the underlying cause of chronic pain, such as arthritis, cancer, or nerve damage, may require medication. Some doctors might also prescribe pain medications, like opioids, muscle relaxers, or over-the-counter pain relievers, to help alleviate discomfort. (1)
Studies suggest that cold therapy shows promise for managing chronic pain. Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, can be delivered in a number of ways, including localized treatment with ice packs or cold therapy systems. Whole-body treatment can also include submersion in ice baths or the use of a cryotherapy chamber. Although it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, studies indicate that cold therapy is a low-risk approach with minimal adverse side effects. (2)
Massage therapy may be recommended to help relieve pain and reduce tension and stress. It may also be effective for addressing chronic muscle pain caused by repeated use during sports or work. (3) For many, getting a massage is a relaxing experience, so it’s worth seeing if it makes sense to include as part of a chronic pain management strategy.
Depending on the reasons for chronic pain, lifestyle changes may help reduce or eliminate discomfort. These include getting more physical activity, finding ways to reduce stress, and managing your weight. A healthcare provider might recommend physical therapy to introduce new movements and strategies that help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion. (1) Emotional support strategies such as psychotherapy, meditation, and relaxation techniques may also be recommended to address related side effects of chronic pain, such as depression or anxiety. (4)
Although medication can be an effective component of managing chronic pain, it’s not the only option. Game Ready offers effective pain management while helping to reduce the use of the opioid medications, when compared to routine care, that have caused an epidemic affecting human lives, the financial impact to the healthcare industry, and the economy.†
Check with your healthcare provider about incorporating cold therapy into your approach to pain management and get a prescription for Game Ready. Our portable cold and compression system conveniently delivers cryotherapy through comfortable wraps, available from head to toe. You can also buy Game Ready with a prescription, providing access to clinically proven cold therapy any time you need it.
† Claim data on file with Avanos.