Yesterday, we discussed that some people who suffer from chronic pain also suffer from addictions to the medications they use to treat such pain. This is not condemning such sufferers, however, because chronic pain can be a debilitating condition and looking to relieve chronic pain is entirely understandable.

But sometimes, prescription medications such as opioids might not be the right solution to alleviating chronic pain. Perhaps patients have been addicted to a pain medication or another drug in the past. Other patients may be allergic to such drugs or not be able to take them because of other medications or conditions that could make chronic pain medications ineffective or even dangerous. Still other chronic pain suffers might not like the idea of taking drugs.

Luckily, these patients might be able to discuss alternatives with the doctors and other medical and psychological professionals in their lives. Some treatments that don’t involve drugs might include:

• Physical therapy. Physical therapists might be able to work on painful areas of the body and teach their clients ways to move and exercise in less painful ways.
• Exercise. Moving around might reduce stiffness or prevent future physical problems.
• Acupuncture. The ancient practice of acupuncture, or inserting needles in specific areas on the body, can help relieve pain.
• Psychotherapy (therapy). Talking with therapists might help clients deal with stress. Since stress can trigger pain, substance use disorder, and other conditions, dealing with this psychological condition can help physically as well.
• Heat and cold. Applying heat and cold to painful areas can provide relief.
• TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). TENS uses electrodes to provide electricity to alleviate pain.

Again, patients should discuss whether such treatments, a combination of such treatments, or other methods could work for them. It is encouraging to know that there are many treatment options available (and many more in development), and not all of these options include drugs.