Acute pain management
Acute pain can be the result of an injury, overactivity, a medical condition, a procedure, surgery, or an unknown cause. Acute pain can also be caused by a flare-up, or sudden worsening, of a chronic pain condition. New pain of an unknown cause can signal important changes in your health and should be communicated to your health care team.
There are several things you can do to manage acute pain. If your pain is so severe that you feel you are experiencing a crisis, you can call a health care professional, visit an urgent care clinic or emergency room, or call 911 if you believe it is a medical emergency.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, you may choose to call 988. This crisis hotline is a national network of regional crisis centers. Free and confidential emotional support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Help is available in English and Spanish and for those who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Counselors are trained to help callers access services and find solutions.
There are several methods for managing acute pain. You may not be able to eliminate acute pain. But you can reduce it and feel more comfortable. Here are some easy methods.
Apply Heat or cold packs to the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
Gentle stretching can be soothing. Or try some simple Yoga poses.
Rest when you feel the need.
Take a warm bath or shower.
Use relaxation, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Try over-the-counter medicine or medication that has been prescribed to you.
Use distractions, such as music, playing with a pet or child, calling a friend, or doing easy chores.
Be sure to use reassuring self-talk.
Find a quiet room free of harsh lighting to regain strength.
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