Pain. No one likes to live with it, but few care recipients live without it. Let’s talk about non-pharmaceutical remedies caregivers can use to help alleviate their loved one’s pain.

Chronic or severe pain can be debilitating and needs to be addressed. I have learned from experience that patients have a wide range of pain tolerance. People suffer from various degrees of pain as well, depending on their overall health and any particular pain-causing ailments such as arthritis. While pain should always be reported and discussed with the doctor, there are alternative measures caregivers can try before turning to medications.

More than a few times, I have made the comment, “If I were filthy rich, I would hire my own private masseur to be at my beck and call.” That is just another way of saying, “I love massages!” Ah, just the thought of it makes me relax. Some people get manicures and pedicures so they’ll have pretty fingers and toes; you can keep the polish – I’ll take the hot stones. Fortunately, my husband has great massage techniques. Sometimes he’ll gently rub away the arthritic pain in my thumb joints; the manipulation is very therapeutic. Occasionally, he will give me a lingering foot massage that alleviates tired, achy feet  and usually puts me to sleep. Not every pain responds so well and quickly to massage, but it is a highly recommended remedy that can be easily utilized for its pain-reducing and relaxation effects. 

Heat relaxes muscles, which may reduce pain as well as provide comfort. If your loved one is able, assist him in taking a warm bath. If he cannot get in and out of the tub safely, a warm shower may be the best alternative. Hand-held showers are beneficial as you can direct the warm-water massage to painful areas. Hot water bottles, a warm washcloth or a heating pad (use with caution and continual supervision) are useful to help reduce localized pain. Some folk prefer cold applications, which are effective when pain is due to swelling or inflammation or to numb sharp pain. Always wrap ice packs in a soft cloth and use in fifteen-minute intervals several times as day.

Just changing position can often alleviate certain types of pain. Assist your recipient in finding her most comfortable position whether sitting or lying down. You may need to provide an additional chair cushion or extra pillows. Pillows are simple but versatile devices for improving comfort whether placed between the knees, under the heels or against the back when lying on one side. Some people also enjoy holding a pillow, which can be both soothing and provide a relaxing prop for tired or aching hands. Remember that it is important to reposition frequently – at least every few hours. 

Most everyone suffers from an occasional headache. Remember that the number one cause for headaches is stress. Lack of sleep and hunger can also trigger headaches, so address those possibilities before reaching for a pain pill.

Stressful situations can increase the sensation of any pain, so it is good to avoid them when possible. Encourage relaxation techniques such as slow, deep breathing or listening to calming music. Pain may be more noticeable when one is bored or lonely. Try to provide enjoyable activities throughout the day and adopt a pleasant bedtime routine.

Follow your doctor’s advice concerning the use of over-the-counter pain medications, keeping in mind the possible long-term side effects of frequent use. 

While alleviating pain entirely for your loved one is probably not an option, reducing pain to a tolerable level and making your loved one as comfortable as possible are goals for which all caregivers can strive.