Difference Between Pain Medicine and Pain Management

3-7-2024

Pain medicine can be used as part of a pain management plan. However, pain management plans can incorporate non-pharmaceutical methods to help patients feel better.

Pain Medicine

Pain medicine focuses on providing immediate relief while physicians seek long-term solutions. Pain medicine centers on treating the symptoms of pain using various pain relievers such as OTC medication and prescription medication.

OTC medication does not require a prescription from a physician. Common forms include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, and cough suppressants.

Alleviate pain from headaches, menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, toothaches, etc.

Treat cold and flu symptoms

Treat sunburns

Reduce inflammation

Pain relievers can come as tablets, caplets, gelcaps, liquids, or creams. OTC medication can help.

Prescription medication is much stronger than OTC medicine. As such, they are only available for purchase with a prescription. This medication can treat more chronic conditions such as:

High blood pressure

Cancer

Migraines

Depression

Anxiety

Pain Management

Pain management relies on multiple techniques and treatments to discover and manage the root cause of a patient’s pain. It aims to provide relief and improve the quality of life for patients with chronic pain conditions. Although pain medicine can be used in pain management treatments, it incorporates non-pharmacological methods to relieve pain.

What Are the Different Types of Pain Management?

Pain management can come in a variety of forms including physical therapy, heat therapy, or acupuncture.

Pain management plans can vary based on the type of pain, severity, the individual's medical condition, and preferences.

It can be used for acute or chronic conditions such as arthritis, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, or knee injuries.

Physical therapy uses exercises to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Physical therapists may also use stretching techniques and massages to reduce inflammation and tension in specific areas.

Heat therapy is often used for muscle pain, chronic pain, and injuries. It can reduce inflammation and relax muscles.

Other types of pain management include:

– Cold therapy

– Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

– Yoga

– Exercise

– Medication

 – Meditation

– Surgery

Under-standing and Types of Pain