Many patients wait until their pain is severe before taking medication. But pain is easier to control when it is mild. Your doctor will probably tell you to take your pain medication. This may mean taking it the same time every day. Work with your doctor to develop a personal daily plan for your pain control.
Pain medication is only one aspect, of effective pain management.
Your doctor might suggest several types of non-drug treatments in addition to drug therapy. Your doctor might also suggest changes in your diet. Ask your doctor to discuss the types of non-drug pain management approaches that can help you. Pain can make you feel sad, angry, vulnerable, lonely - or a host of other negative emotions. Many people have learned to cope with these emotions through professional counseling or patient support groups.