Pain Relief

5 Ways To Manage Acute Pain

Pain is our body's way of indicating that something is wrong and needs attention. Whether it feels like a sting, itch, prick, ache, or burn, the affected body part sends that signal of pain to the brain. 

Different Types of Pain

There are two different types of pain: Acute and Chronic. 

• Acute pain is periodic and disappears when the underlying cause is resolved. It can serve as a warning sign of disease and may arise from burns or cuts, surgery, dental work, labor and childbirth, and broken bones.
• Chronic pain lasts longer than six months and can continue even after recovering from injury or illness. Some conditions such as headache, arthritis, cancer, nerve pain, and fibromyalgia can cause chronic pain. Common symptoms may include muscle tension, limited mobility, lack of energy, and changes in appetite.

5 Ways To Manage Acute Pain

Some ways to establish an acute pain relief plan - 

1. Pain Relievers

Many times acute pain can be managed with over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen (Paracetamol, Tylenol) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (Aspirin). These help in treating headaches, toothaches, fever, throat pain due to cold, and many other ailments. 

Acetaminophen works on the part of the brain that receives pain signals by blocking those messages from being sent.

NSAIDs relieve pain by acting on the chemicals involved in inflammation. They work on special enzymes – Cox-1 and Cox-2 and reduce the production of prostaglandins, a substance created in the body that irritates nerve endings. 

HPFY Recommendation - Biofreeze Professional Pain-Relieving Roll-On

FSA Approved Made In USA

A great alternative to pain relievers, this roll-on gel disperses just the right amount to the desired area to relieve arthritic pain, sore muscles, joints, sprains, strains, and backaches. Formulated with menthol which immediately provides a cooling sensation and helps reduce blood flow. 

2. Hot and Cold Therapy

Another proven way to relieve pain is with cold or hot therapy.

Cold therapy is helpful in case of pain caused by swelling and inflammation as it narrows the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the affected area. Hot therapy is beneficial for treating stiffness by increasing blood flow to loosen the muscles and joints. 

HPFY Recommendation - Cardinal Health Insulated Reusable Hot and Cold Gel Packs

FSA Approved

These gel packs provide dual benefits of hot and cold therapies. Easy to heat in the microwave and easy to cool by tossing in the freezer, they help reduce joint and muscle pain and relieve minor injuries, muscle spasms, joint stiffness, and body aches. One-sided insulation prevents the pack from losing temperature to provide long-lasting relief. 

3. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

TENS uses electrodes placed on the skin to administer low-voltage electrical currents. These currents activate the nerves beneath the electrodes and prevent pain signals from reaching the brain.

While TENS therapy provides quick relief from pain, the effects do not last long. Patients are sometimes required to undergo multiple therapy sessions. 

HPFY Recommendation – BodyMed Analog 250 TENS Unit

FSA Approved

This all-in-one, high-quality, and affordable TENS device operates with the push of a button which makes it safe and easy to administer electrical signals with increased control. It has an analog display and 2 channels with 3 different treatment modes and a built-in timer to protect from overstimulation. Knob covers ensure that there are no accidental changes to the settings during therapy. It is portable and comes with a carrying case. 

4. Back and Abdomen Support Belts

Supports the spine and lower back muscles, to help relieve pain and promote healing by restricting movement.

Some belts target specific areas, such as the lumbar region of the back, and provide compression to heal acute pain related to the lower back.

HPFY Recommendation - Serola Sacroiliac Belt

FSA Approved Relieves severe pain in the back, muscles, hips, and legs, reduces inflammation in the sacroiliac joint, and provides stability to the base of the spine. This belt focuses on minimizing muscle tears and injury from stretching. Regular use re-establishes the normal functioning of joints and reduces stress in ligaments. This belt is made of a long-lasting, heavy gauge rubber and has moisture-wicking abilities so that skin remains dry even after prolonged usage.