Treatments Medication Management by Santa Ana Pain Clinic 1 1 - Medication Management

If your pain is making it difficult to go about normal activities, it might be time for medication management, especially if measures like rest and ice therapy are not helpful.

Every patient’s pain is different, so it can be difficult to determine the best option for pain relief without evaluation and some trial and error. A careful diagnosis is the first step, because chronic injury can be caused by injuries, chronic nerve disorders, and more.

There are many different types of medication that can be utilized for pain management. The type that should be used depends on the type of pain that is experienced. For example, nociceptive pain that relates to the tissues may be best managed by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, while neuropathic pain that relates to the nerves may be best controlled by anticonvulsants. Our job is to help you determine the best approach for pain relief based on your situation. Some options for pain management are available over the counter, while others are available only by prescription.

Some examples of pain medications include:

    Treatments Medication Management by Santa Ana Pain Clinic 2 1 - Medication Management
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) that work by reducing the production of substances similar to hormones that contribute to pain
  • Anti-convulsants can be used for nerve conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, and fibromyalgia
  • Antidepressants may be utilized for chronic pain conditions to help reduce anxiety and sleep troubles that accompany them
  • Opioids that work by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system (used when pain is not controlled by other methods)

In many cases, medication management is combined with other methods of pain relief. More than one medication can be combined with another to reach the best desired effect.

It is very important to follow all of your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking pain medication. Some medications have side effects or are not safe to use daily, while others can be used for the long term.