Common Treatments
These are common things I try to give to everyone that I see for basic pain management. Although some are common sense, they are time tested and truly consistent relievers.
Over the Counter Medications. Please consult with your doctor if you have any prescription medications or medical conditions. The most common oral pain medications are Tylenol/acetaminophen, Advil/Motrin/ibuprofen, Aleve/naproxen, and Bayer/aspirin. Of these, I recommend ibuprofen and other non steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), although these are considered harder on the stomach and not recommended for long term use. In acute conditions, I recommend their consistent use to curb inflammation consistently for several days, then taper the use over a few days. This is beneficial because the response of the body in healing is to send blood to the area consistently to heal it and requires several days to stop the healing response.
PRICE Principle. This mnemonic stands for protect, restrict, ice, compression, and elevation. Protection means bracing to protect the injury. Restriction is closely related in restricting yourself from actions that will increase symptoms. Ice is key in all injuries- both acute or chronic. I know that you are probably thinking- “I hate ice.” To make the ice less bothersome, put a towel or even two between your skin and the ice pack. (My favorite ice pack is homemade using a gallon freezer bag filled with half rubbing alcohol and half water). *Heat is not an option because it can cause further inflammation.* Compression is very useful in eliminating excess inflammation. A compression sleeve or velcro compression bandage can be purchased for most body parts. Lastly, elevation is needed to further reduce inflammation and the affected part should be lifted above the heart for best results. Proper elevation coupled with compression and ice leaves a slim chance for pain or inflammation.
Topical Analgesics. There is a mighty plethora of options to choose from; however, for most the only mechanism that assists with pain is the cause of sensation. In theory, the more sensation caused by the ointment the more pain relief. Common topicals include Bio-Freeze, Icy-Hot, and Bengay.
Massage. You or your loved ones can use a topical ointment for a lubricant in a rubbing massage. I would recommend a non-friction massage (your skin stays in contact without rubbing and you move the skin over the muscle). This massage can be performed with a broad flat hand (which should be used in the beginning) or finger tips for more direct pressure on pain points (slowly building in pressure).
Distraction. If you are experiencing joint pain, unloading a joint will reduce pressure and alleviate symptoms. A quick YouTube search will teach you some great techniques in distracting the joint in question. Always start slowly and build pressure as you become more comfortable.