This depression and irritability often leads to insomnia and weariness, which compounds the problem by causing more irritability, depression, and pain. The urge to stop the pain can make some people drug dependent, and may drive others to have repeated surgeries, or resort to questionable treatments. Chronic pain involves all aspects of a person's life. Therefore, the most effective treatment includes not only relief of symptoms, but other types of support. Heat and cold treatments can reduce the stiffness and pain, particularly of arthritis.
Cold packs numb the sore area and are especially good for severe joint pain and swelling.
Prescription pain medications including opiate related compounds, usually can provide stronger pain relief than aspirin can provide. However, prescription pain medications have some potential for abuse, and may have unpleasant and even harmful side effects. In combination with other medications or alcohol, some can be dangerous. Prescription antidepressants can benefit some patients who report that pain relief happens before any uplift in mood, a result that specialists think happens because the antidepressant increases the supply of a naturally produced neurotransmitter, serotonin. Now scientists have evidence that cells using serotonin are also an integral part of a pain-controlling pathway in the brain.