Pain can be intense or it can be dull and aching.  It may come on suddenly and be related to an injury, possibly warning of potential tissue damage.  It may be chronic, lasting for months and not really associated with any particular event.  Whatever the cause or character, you need to be able to deal with the pain you have.

Sometimes people do not tell their healthcare provider that they are in pain.  This may be because they think that pain is an expected part of their health condition.  Sometimes, people think that talking about their pain makes them seem like a “complainer” or “drug-seeker” to the caregiver.  The staff at the Wound Care Center at Nyack Hospital wants to help you deal with any pain that you may have.  Please let us know if you experience pain or if your current pain management methods are not effective.  Please be sure to let us know what causes changes in your pain level and methods for dealing with the pain.

Sometimes, people do not want to take pain medication because they worry about possible side effects, including addiction to the medication.  Be sure to talk with your doctor if you have these concerns.  There are also a number of things that you can do to relieve pain, in addition to any methods recommended by your physician.  They are:

• Frequent position changes
• Proper body alignment and correct body mechanics
• Soft music and a restful environment
• Use of relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga or biofeedback
• Backrubs or massage
• Application of heat or warmth, but only as recommended by your physician
• Support, such as pillows, to the painful area.
• Diversional activities (diverting your attention from the pain by engaging in other activities)
• Regular rest periods if pain is caused from overuse
• Talking with your physician about Pain Management Programs are therapies.  For further information about the Pain Management Center at Nyack Hospital, click here.

• If your doctor has advised you to take pain medication, you can maximize its effectiveness by following these principles:
• Take the medication on a regular schedule for chronic pain.  If the pain is intermittent, take the medication only as needed.
• Take your medication at the onset of pain, before it gets intense.
• Take your medication prior to any activity that you know will cause pain
• If your medication is not working, or if you experience unpleasant side effects such as drowsiness, speak with your physician.
• If you are caring for someone who is in pain, but cannot communicate easily, observe his or her body language for signs of pain.  Signs include grimacing or other facial expressions, crying, tension, clenched fists, restlessness, sweating, increase blood pressure and pulse, altered mood or behavior.  Provide pain medication as prescribed.