Pain management can be puzzling because it encompasses many treatment options. Let’s have some fun today and see how much you know about pain management.
True or false? Pain management is all about medications.
FALSE! Pain management incorporates many forms of treatment, from manipulation to minimally invasive procedures like Botox for chronic migraine headaches and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for knee pain relief.
Regarding a home remedy for pain management, what is RICE therapy?
RICE stands for Rest/Ice/Compression/Elevation. Typically, after a joint injury like an ankle sprain, the RICE procedure is the first course of treatment in helping to reduce pain and swelling. It’s best to see a physician for any injury that does not improve within a few days.
What is the most common pain complaint?
Back pain is the most frequent reason a person loses time from work or seeks treatment from a physician. In addition to injury, causes of back pain can stem from a range of things, including improper lifting, being overweight, poor posture, lack of exercise, disease, and chronic conditions.
What is neuropathy, and what causes it?
Neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Commonly caused by diabetes, neuropathy is often associated with other conditions like medications, infection, and hereditary disorders. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as healthy eating habits and regular exercise can help reduce symptoms; however, it is difficult to treat.
What is radiofrequency ablation, commonly known as RFA?
RFA uses radio waves through a needle placed in a nerve where the pain originates. The waves prevent a pain signal from being sent to the brain, thus alleviating the pain sensation. RFA is helpful for long-term pain in the neck and back, as well as arthritic joints that have not improved with traditional treatment.
True or false? The first course of pain management treatment for knee arthritis is a surgical replacement.
FALSE! There are many alternatives to knee replacement, and surgery should be a patient’s last resort. Treatment may include physical therapy, weight loss, bracing, injections, exercise modification, NSAIDs, PRP, RFA, and strengthening or aquatic exercises.
What are the five most common types of pain?
- Acute pain refers to a relatively short duration of pain from an injury or an illness.
- Chronic pain is one of a longer duration. It is often due to one of many conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or even an injury.
- Neuropathic pain derives from nerve damage and is typically described as burning, stabbing, or shooting sensations. This pain can make everyday life difficult due to being irregular and can lead to mobility challenges.
- Nociceptive pain is caused by tissue damage, often from an external injury. Examples would be stubbing a toe or falling and scraping your knee.
- Radicular pain occurs when the spinal nerve compresses. Many refer to this pain as sciatica, where walking and sitting can worsen the pain. Pain can radiate in the hip and leg.
So, how did you do on our quiz?
The most important takeaway is to know that pain is not normal, and thankfully, there are treatment options for pain relief. If you are experiencing pain, the pain management team at BPWC are experts in diagnosing and treating your pain to get you back to life.
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