Pain Management
“Menthol, found in Iceman, is considered one of nature’s foremost pain relievers and has a natural analgesic (pain reliever) attribute when used in lotion or gel form. Once applied, the molecules called ligands attach themselves to receptors in the human cells, triggering an effect. They then attach to the kappa Opioid receptor, which produces a numbing effect.”
Iceman cooling gel is effective for:
• Muscle cooling before, during and after physical exercise
• Relief of joint or muscle pain associated with arthritis and aging
• Treatment of minor and less serious bruises
• Interim pain relief after muscle injury or sprains
• Alleviation of muscle or joint inflammation
Pain management, also known as algiatry, is an interdisciplinary approach that deals with easing the suffering, while improving the quality of life of those living with chronic pain.
For a number of people, pain can be a debilitating condition, affecting their quality of life immensely. However, there are ways to keep it under control. Whether pain is a result of arthritis, cancer or any injury, the first step is to consult a health care professional, who can determine the exact cause of the condition. Once this is done, it is easier to recommend the right kind of pain management option that is quick and effective.
Definition of Pain
“The International Association for the Study of Pain came up with a consensus statement,” says Judith Scheman, PhD, program director of the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience. I think that’s extraordinarily important. When we focus only on the sensory aspect, we fail to appreciate the suffering component of the pain, which is important to recognize because pain is not what occurs at the periphery.”
Why Do People Feel Pain Differently?
There is no argument that pain is a physical phenomenon. However, pain is measured according to each individual’s perception of the pain, making it highly subjective. People who are prone to depression or fear may experience pain differently than those who are less fearful. According to medical professionals, ‘What the brain perceives is indisputably modifiable by emotions.’
Pain Management Options
As pain is experienced differently for each individual, it is important to treat it both, physically and emotionally. The following are the most common pain management options used today:
Medications
The most effective pain medications used include NSAIDS, Acetaminophen, Antidepressants, Anti-seizure medication and Steroids.
Therapy
As pain management is aimed at the mind and the body, both physical therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy are highly effective.
Other options
There are also a number of other modalities that are used for pain management.TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), meditation, relaxation techniques, visual imagery, biofeedback, heat and cold therapy, massages, acupuncture and light therapy are just some of the most popular options.
It must be noted that none of the options or modalities listed above must be undertaken without the advice and consultation of a health care professional.
Pain in Children
Although acute pain is experienced by almost every child due to a fall or illness, chronic pain is less common, affecting approximately 15-25% of children. These can be caused by underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, sickle cell anaemia, cancer or other functional disorders such as migraines.
The Two Main Pain Management Options for Children are:
Non-pharmacological
These techniques have minimum risk and are cost effective. Physical interventions to ease pain in babies
include swaddling, rocking, swaying or using a pacifier. For older children, this may include hot and/or cold therapy, acupuncture
and massages. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is also a great way to reduce the emotion distress felt by children while
experiencing chronic pain.
Pharmacological
Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and opioid analgesics are the most common pharmacological options used in children for pain management.
“Years back, I was in a car accident, which has left me in debilitating pain in my legs till date. After a number of surgeries, pain management has now become a way of life. However, thanks to Iceman, I can live my life again to the fullest. Thank you, Iceman!”
Vicki Sanders, Cape Town
Despite the relief provided by Iceman, it must be noted that consulting a physician is highly essential. The information provided is purely informative.
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