Pain management: Practical steps to reduce pain now

Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek help. Whether it’s a sore back, joint ache, nerve pain, or the aftermath of surgery, the goal is the same: feel better and move more. This page gives straight-to-the-point options you can try, what works fast, and when to talk to a clinician.

Medications that can help

For many people, over-the-counter options are the first stop. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen reduce pain and swelling for headaches, muscle strains, and arthritis flares. Always follow the label and your doctor’s advice, especially if you have liver, kidney, or stomach issues.

Topical medicines—creams, gels, or patches with menthol, capsaicin, or lidocaine—work well for localized pain. They often cause fewer side effects than pills and are handy for knees, shoulders, or low back pain.

For nerve-related pain (burning, tingling, shooting pain), drugs usually used for other conditions often help. Gabapentin or pregabalin and certain antidepressants such as duloxetine can lower nerve pain. These need a prescription and a few weeks to reach full effect, so plan ahead.

Opioids still have a role for short-term severe pain after major surgery or injury, but they carry risks—dependence, constipation, and other side effects. Doctors usually recommend the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.

Non-drug strategies that actually work

Physical therapy and regular, guided exercise change how your body handles pain. Strengthening weak muscles and improving posture often reduces flare-ups. Even short daily walks and specific stretching can make a big difference.

Heat and cold are simple but effective. Use ice for new swelling and sharp injuries during the first 48–72 hours. Switch to heat for tight, chronic muscles to loosen them before movement. Both methods are cheap and fast.

Mind-body tools matter. Breathing exercises, guided relaxation, and cognitive approaches can lower pain intensity and make it less disruptive. People with long-standing pain often get the biggest benefit when they combine movement, sleep hygiene, and stress control.

Injections, nerve blocks, or procedures can help when other measures fail. These are done by specialists and suit targeted problems like severe joint pain or certain nerve conditions.

Red flags: get immediate care for sudden severe pain, fever with pain, new weakness or numbness, loss of bladder/bowel control, or pain after a serious injury. If pain limits normal activities for weeks or steadily worsens, see your doctor for a plan tailored to your situation.

No single fix works for everyone. Mix sensible meds, physical work, and lifestyle changes. If you’re unsure what to try first, ask a clinician—especially before starting prescription drugs or if you have other health issues.