10 MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT PAIN…

Unfortunately, there are a number of pain myths and facts with some being around for many years…

Myth – ‘Your painkillers will stop working if you take them too often‘. The short answer is no, not without approval from your healthcare provider. Dosage schedules are in place to minimize your pain while also protecting you from potentially dangerous side effects or accidental overdose. With narcotics, there’s the added risk of addiction.
Myth – ‘You should not drink while taking painkillers‘. As a good rule of thumb, you should only drink alcohol moderately while taking painkillers unless directed by your GP.
Myth – ‘Pain is a sign that something is wrong‘. This is not always the case as sometimes false pain signals can be sent. Some people can still feel pain in a limb that they have had removed.
Myth – ‘No pain, no gain‘, is a classic example of this myth that is said amongst athletes but in actual fact, there is no evidence to support the actual notion that you can build strength by pushing your muscles to work to the point of actual pain.
Myth – ‘It’s all in my head‘. How many of us have heard this one but the pain is a complex problem, involving both the mind and the body. Pain is an invisible problem that others can’t see, but that doesn’t mean it’s all in your head.
Myth – ‘I’ll get addicted to the pain relief medicine‘. However, GPs start your pain relief with a conservative approach by prescribing non-opioid pain-relief medicines which are in no way addictive.
Fact – ‘Weather can affect your pain‘, If your joint pain gets worse when it’s cold or raining, it may not be your imagination. Although studies have shown mixed results, changes in air pressure can cause some people — especially those with arthritis — to have more pain in their joints.
Myth – ‘Rest is the best treatment for back pain‘. It’s best to remain active. Experts say that complete bed rest is one of the worst things you can do for back pain — or any other type of long-term (chronic) pain.
Fact – ‘Losing weight will help with your pain‘. If you’re overweight, losing some of it means less pressure on your joints and back. Even 10 pounds can make a difference.
Myth – ‘Pain is part of old age’. Chronic pain is not like grey hair and wrinkles. You might not feel like you used to when you were young. But if you’re in pain every day, talk with your doctor to help you find relief. At any age, you shouldn’t settle for feeling bad.