What are the obstacles to treating pain as effectively as we should?

Devi E. Nampiaparampil, MD

Pain Medicine

New technologies are improving how well we can manage and treat pain, but more research is needed to better understand how acute pain becomes chronic, says Devi Nampiaparampil, MD, chief of pain management at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

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Should Opioids be Prescribed for All Types of Pain?

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pain Treatment

Pain treatment varies depending on the severity of an injury or cause of the pain. Analgesics, or pain relievers, may be your first step. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin can treat mild to moderate pain. Stronger pain medication may be prescribed after surgery or more severe injuries. For chronic pain that persists, your doctor can help determine the best course of treatment or give you a referral for a pain specialist. Learn more about treating pain with expert advice from Sharecare.

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