There is virtually no risk of addiction with short-term use. Treatments such as massage therapy, hypnosis, or acupuncture are sometimes used to manage pain. Local anesthetics can be administered in a laceration or surgical incision. They can also be given in the epidural space in the spinal column where nerves exit. This is the same technique used to reduce pain for pregnant women during labor and delivery.
Opiates affect receptors located in the spinal cord and brain.
These receptors are also present at the site of injury. When opiates are present in the brain, euphoria and sedation can be produced. These drugs alter the mind's perception of painful stimuli. At the level of the spinal cord, opiates deaden painful impulses transmitted from the peripheral nerves. Local anesthetics block nerve impulses.