Pain is something we have all experienced, some more frequently and with greater intensity than others. We may experience it as a result of a specific condition or after a procedure. As we get older, the frequency of pain may increase as we develop conditions such as osteoarthritis. For those who suffer from chronic pain, defined as pain that lasts more than three months, it is common to turn to painkillers and NSAIDs to help manage it. These drugs often come with side effects that should be carefully considered. Before taking medications, there are alternative treatments that can help manage your pain, such as exercise, acupuncture or mindfulness. Pain is an important and challenging issue, but it’s imperative that any management options provide benefits that outweigh their risks.
A closer look at the benefits and risks associated with some pain-management options
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DISCLAIMER: Many of our Blog Posts were written before the COVID-19 pandemic and thus do not necessarily reflect the latest public health recommendations. While the content of these blogs identify activities that support optimal aging, it is important to defer to the most current public health recommendations such as social distancing and frequent hand washing. Some of the activities suggested within these blogs may need to be modified or avoided altogether to comply with current social distancing recommendations. To view the latest updates from the Public Health Agency of Canada, please visit their website.
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