Pain can be divided into two different categories, acute and chronic. Acute pain typically lasts for a shorter duration (no more than 6 months) and is the result of some form of tissue damage. Chronic pain persists even after an injury has healed or is resulting from an ongoing condition. It can include lower back pain, arthritis, headaches or pain from nerve damage.
Treatment of Acute or Chronic Pain
Acute pain can typically be treated with some combination of over-the-counter or prescription painkillers, the application of heat or ice, physical therapy or rest.
Chronic pain can be much trickier to treat as the causes are not always clear. While the options suggested above may provide relief, meditation and other stress reduction techniques, massage and lifestyle changes may be required as well.
Your healthcare professional can advise you what the best treatment options are for your pain.