October 29, 2022

4 Ways To Cope With Acute Pain

Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a sprained ankle, or post-surgery discomfort, acute pain can be extremely debilitating. The good news is that there are many things you can do to ease the pain and get on with your life. Dr Brian Blick, pain management specialist at the Western Oklahoma Pain Specialists LLC, gives the following tips on how to deal with acute pain.
1. Over-The-Counter Medication:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are two of the most popular over-the-counter medications for pain relief. They work by decreasing inflammation and swelling. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging carefully, as taking too many of these medications can be harmful to your health. When in doubt, always ask your pharmacist or Dr Brian Blick.
2. Apply Ice Or Heat:
Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help to ease pain and improve the range of motion. Ice should be used for acute injuries (within the first 24-48 hours), while heat can be used for chronic injuries or pain relief.
3. Elevate The Affected Area:
This is particularly important if you’ve injured yourself. By elevating the affected area above your heart, you can decrease swelling and inflammation.
4. Exercise:
Although it may seem counterintuitive, exercise is actually one of the best things you can do for acute pain relief. Of course, you don’t want to overexert yourself—start with some light stretching and gradually increase intensity as tolerated. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by your body. It also helps to improve the range of motion and flexibility.
Conclusion:
Acute pain can be extremely frustrating and debilitating. However, there are many things you can do to ease the pain and get on with your life. Over-the-counter medication, applying ice or heat, elevation, and exercise are all great options for coping with acute pain. Try out different methods until you find one that works best for you!

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