The Role of Medication in Pain

Acute pain is the sharp, temporary pain you experience right after an injury, like a sprained ankle. It typically lasts for a short time and fades as the injury heals.

Chronic pain, on the other hand, sticks around for longer—usually defined as pain that lasts three to six months or more. This is when the pain becomes persistent, and it may not always respond to standard treatment.

While we all prefer to avoid pain, taking a dose or short course of pain medication for acute relief (such as immediately after an injury) can be helpful. However, if your pain becomes chronic or keeps coming back, it’s time to take a closer look at the bigger picture.

What to Consider Before Relying on Medication for Chronic Pain

If your pain lingers or recurs, don’t just rely on medication to solve the problem. There are several factors to consider and consulting with a healthcare professional is key. Here are a few things you should think about:

• What’s causing the pain? Could poor posture or repetitive movements be the culprit? Did the onset of your pain coincide with a specific trauma (e.g. a fall or an accident) or might there be an underlying disease that is contributing to your pain?
• Can you modify your activities? Adjusting activities that may be making your pain worse or putting you at risk of further injury can make a huge difference.
• Is stress or mental health contributing to your pain? Stress, anxiety, depression, or even major life events like bereavement can amplify pain. Addressing these issues is just as important as managing the physical symptoms.
• Are you taking care of the basics? A healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition, regular exercise, proper ergonomics, and sleep, can significantly improve musculoskeletal function. (Check out our articles on lifestyle measures for more details.)
• Have you considered other treatments? Is there some other form of treatment which could complement or reduce the need for pain medication?

KEY MESSAGE: Pain relief medication certainly has its place, but it’s not the only solution—especially for chronic or recurring pain since medications come with potential side effects.

Common Types of Pain Medication

There are various types of pain medications available, each with its own approach to relieving discomfort. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common pain medicines:

Paracetamol: Often the first choice for mild pain relief.

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Drugs like ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen target inflammation to reduce pain and swelling.

Opioids and Opiates: Medications such as codeine, morphine, and fentanyl can be effective but carry the risk of addiction, so they should be used with caution.

Corticosteroids: These are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., triamcinolone or hydrocortisone) which are usually given as injections for severe pain. Frequent injections with corticosteroids should be avoided however due to the possibility of side effects.

Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Medications

Some pain-relieving medications can be purchased without a prescription, like paracetamol or ibuprofen, but others require a doctor’s prescription. Your local pharmacy is a great resource for guidance on what might help with your specific pain, especially if you’re dealing with minor injuries.

It’s important to note that over-the-counter pain medication should generally only be used for short-term relief (usually no longer than a week). If your pain persists or worsens, it’s time to consult with a healthcare professional.

Busting Common Misperceptions About Pain Medication

There are a lot of misconceptions about pain medication, and it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Here are a few of the most common ones:

Misperception #1: “Medications just mask the pain.”

Yes, pain medication can dull discomfort, but it doesn’t just “mask” pain. In fact, it can help you regain movement and function, which is crucial for recovery. If pain is stopping you from performing rehab exercises or getting hands-on treatment, medication can help break that barrier. Plus, certain pain medicines also help reduce inflammation or prevent the pain cycle from becoming chronic.

Misperception #2: “Pain medication is addictive.”

While some pain medicines (like opiates or opioids) can be addictive, not all pain-relieving drugs carry this risk. The key is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible. If you’re worried about addiction, talk to your doctor or pharmacist—they can help you weigh the risks and benefits.

Misperception #3: “My doctor gave me antidepressants for pain. Does that mean they think I’m depressed?”

Not necessarily! Some types of pain, particularly neuropathic pain (pain caused by nerve irritation or damage), respond well to medications originally designed for other conditions, such as antidepressants or anti-epileptic drugs. For example, antidepressants like amitriptyline and anti-epileptics like gabapentin can help manage nerve pain, and they’re often prescribed at much lower doses than what you’d use for treating depression or seizures.

What about Side Effects?

All medications come with potential side effects. These can range from mild to more severe, and they vary from person to person. It’s important to communicate with your doctor if you experience any issues so they can adjust your treatment accordingly. The goal is always to find the right balance of benefits versus risks.

Final Thoughts

Pain medication can be a helpful tool in managing musculoskeletal pain, but it’s just one part of a much larger picture. A holistic approach that also includes lifestyle changes, stress management, physical therapy, and other treatments will often provide more long-term relief than medication alone.

Ultimately, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, especially if your pain is persistent. They can guide you toward the best solution tailored to your needs.

Have any questions or concerns about pain management? Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider—they’re there to help you feel better and live your best life!