Managing chronic pain relief is rarely as easy as just swallowing a pill. In order to get a holistic approach we have to listen to the body and not just the area making the most noise.

The muscular system is very complicated. A problem in one area can easily spill over into another and can be intensified by things such as inflammation, worn cartilage, calcium build ups and trigger points.

In order to get the right joint pain relief, for example, you will need to take into consideration any past injuries, any co-existing conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Osteoporosis, Raynauds or Arthritis. Often the work place can cause repetitive stress for the body.

Although for some escaping acute pain is possible, others with a more chronic condition will need to accept that there are limits to what can be done, but using a combination of the following should provide a way of making your pain more manageable:

PAIN RELIEF MEDICATIONS

Often the most effective drugs for these conditions are NSAID's (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Ibuprofen, Mefenamic Acid and Diclofenac (listed in increasing strength). Other medications include the Paracetamol (e.g. Co-codamol) or Codeine lines (e.g. Dihydrocodeine).

What you will be prescribed will depend as much on the person as the condition. Some people take to one family better than others. Often though a combination of drug lines provides a better response, but you should always check what medications you can mix with each other.

Small doses of Amitriptyline are often prescribed for Fibromyalgia to help with deep sleep problems, which may make the nervous system more sensitive to pain.

PHYSICAL THERAPIES

Physiotherapy can be good for some. With gentle stretching exercises it can help relieve pressure on trapped nerves and stimulate circulation to deprived areas of tissue.

However, for arthritis pain relief you may find that it can add to the stress on the joints so coordinate with your doctor before experimenting.

Hydro therapy can be useful because it's easier to do the stretching exercises in the water as there is less resistance and you can stretch your limbs further.

Another option is a trick I learned from a Myofascial therapist (dealing with the malfunctioning fascia, the scaffolding structures for muscle and nerves that harden and entrap them).

Using a tennis ball you lean into it against a wall for your back or on a mat on the floor for your front. By finding tender

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