There are many ways to manage different types of pain. You may have a team of pain management specialists (pain management doctors) who work together to help you manage long-term or severe pain. These specialists work in a field of medicine called algiatry.

Your provider may recommend one approach or a combination of several pain management techniques. These may include:

• At-home remedies: You may be able to relieve pain from injuries to bones, muscles and soft tissues at home. Ask your provider about the RICE method (rest, ice, compression and elevation). While you’re resting, apply ice or a cold compress every 20 minutes or so to reduce swelling and pain.
• Counseling and therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and biofeedback can help you manage chronic pain by changing how your mind reacts to physical discomfort. Because chronic pain can also lead to depression and anxiety, your provider may recommend other types of therapy, counseling or meditation to help you manage these emotions. Some people keep a pain diary to keep track of what makes pain better or worse. These details can help your provider plan treatment.
• Exercise: Your provider may recommend Pilates, yoga, tai chi, swimming or walking. These exercises can reduce chronic pain, improve posture and help your body work better overall. They also benefit your mental health and help you stay balanced.
• Hands-on treatments: Many people find pain relief from physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) and chiropractic adjustments. During these hands-on treatments, your provider uses a range of techniques. They reduce pain, improve alignment and help your body work better.
• Injections and stimulations: Your provider may recommend transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) or radiofrequency ablation to relieve nerve pain. Steroid injections deliver pain relief medication directly to the painful area.
• Lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes can relieve pain. If you carry extra weight or have obesity, your provider may recommend losing weight. People who eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep and manage stress levels may be less likely to have chronic pain.
• Medications: Depending on the type of pain, your provider may recommend prescription or over-the-counter medications to relieve discomfort. You may need antibiotics to treat an infection, muscle relaxers for spasms or anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve swelling. Some of these drugs (such as pain-relieving opioids) can be habit-forming. Always follow your provider’s instructions when taking medications.