Pain Management 101

Posted By: HR avatar

Published to Newsletter on Sep 01, 2023

Tracey Briggs, MA

Health Ed. Consultant


Be Mindful with Medication

Have you ever considered the impact that over-the-counter or prescription medications can have on your body? We all have suffered and taken ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage a headache or muscle injury. Prescription medications can be requested and prescribed by a Primary Care Provider (PCP) to help with more chronic or severe pain incurred by serious injury or medical procedures.

Everyday OTC Medications

  • Acetaminophen: trade name Tylenol. It dulls the pain receptors in your brain.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): trade name Motrin. It decreases the body’s ability to produce prostaglandins, a hormone-like chemical that annoys nerve endings and creates inflammation and pain. NSAIDs aren’t safe for some people, so always talk to your PCP before using them.
  • Blended: Trade name Excedrin. A pain-relieving concoction of acetaminophen and aspirin.
  • Ointments: Trade name Icy Hot. These medications, in gel, roll-on or cream, can be rubbed on the skin to block pain and pain receptors in your brain.

Prescription Medications

  • The safest way to choose pain relief should be a conversation with your primary care provider. They can, with your input, decide the most effective medication to help you live a pain-free lifestyle.

Things you can do to help your PCP

It is teamwork between you and your medical provider to determine what you need. We all experience pain differently, and it’s vital that you track your symptoms to learn what’s needed. Try not to stockpile prescription drugs.

  • Keep a pain journal. Record your pain symptoms. When you have them and how often.
  • Use descriptive words. Be clear with your explanation like stabbing, dull, radiating or 9+ on the pain scale.
  • Map the pain. Pinpoint where the pain is and goes.
  • Share the impact to your lifestyle. Are you unable to work, workout or enjoy favorite activities?
  • Rate your pain. Familiarize yourself with the pain scale of 0 to 10. 0 is having no pain and 10 is the worst pain level.

Disposal of Prescription Drugs

Safety can be achieved when you empty your home of expired or unused medications. It is important to protect young children, older adults with dementia or Alzheimers and anyone that should not have access to prescription drugs by giving them to an approved location for discarding. Find a the local drug disposal location within the City of Albuquerque or relinquish your unused or expired drugs during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The decision to render your drugs useless for individuals to abuse or overdose with can save a life.

Tags: Wellness