Non-Drug Treatments for Pain

There are many effective ways to relieve pain that can work alone or with your pain medications. Knowing what has worked for you in the past will help you decide what techniques to try to keep you or your loved one comfortable. These treatments may work as well as medications for mild pain and may enable you to take less pain medications if your pain is moderate. But remember, that the goal is to be pain-free so an aggressive plan to be comfortable is necessary and for most that means a combination of medication and non-drug interventions.

Please contact your local health care provider or the Delaware Pain Initiative at mfdorey@endpain.org to get detailed information about the following pain relief modalities.

Relaxation Techniques-using breathing and the relaxation of muscle groups to promote comfort

Biofeedback-controlling heart rate, blood pressure and tension to cope with pain. Usually used with other treatments.

Imagery-imagining a scene that provides pleasure and serenity.

Distraction-focusing your attention on another activity that takes your attention away from your discomfort.

Hypnosis-can be used to change the awareness of pain

Skin Stimulation-the use of pressure or temperature to alter the sensation of pain

Massage-stroking or kneading of soft tissue and muscles to relieve pain

TENS-(transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation) the application of a mild electrical current to the area of pain that interferes with pain sensation.

Acupuncture-the insertion of thin needles into the body in areas that control pain sensation

Physical Therapy-treatment and exercise that can relieve pain and restore function to painful areas

Counseling- emotional support that can decrease the stress and anxiety that increases pain.

Nerve Blocks-injections into nerves, nerve roots or spinal cord to block pain

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