Rethinking Pain Management: Alternatives to Opioids
The goal of pain management is to make sure that patients can adequately deal with this and that we're treating it appropriately.
Ever wondered if there’s a better way to manage pain without relying on opioids? In this episode of 'Healthy Mind Matters', Maria Shilaos chats with Kim Campani, Executive Operations Director for Pain Management Services at Intermountain Healthcare, to tackle this very question. The conversation kicks off with the importance of patients asking the right questions when discussing pain management with their doctors.
Questions like 'How much pain should I expect?' and 'What are my non-opioid options?' can make a world of difference in your treatment plan. Campani explains that while opioids can be effective for short-term pain relief, they come with significant risks, especially with long-term use. The episode also dives into why feeling pain is a natural and important response to injury or inflammation, helping us understand what’s happening in our bodies. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom!
Campani highlights alternatives like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, which can be just as effective for many types of pain. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you have informed conversations with your healthcare provider and explore safer pain management options. Tune in to learn how to take control of your pain management journey.