How can Pain be reduced?

The brain is able to send signals that release painkillers found in the spinal cord. These painkillers include serotonin, norepinephrine and opioid-like chemicals.

Pain may be modified by sedatives and Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) or, if unusually severe, by opioid narcotics. In this case, the important receptors in pain transmission are opiate-like receptors. Morphine and other opioid drugs work by locking on to these opioid receptors, switching on pain-inhibiting pathways or circuits, and thereby blocking pain.

Recently, patient-controlled analgesic techniques have been introduced; in which patients have the option of injecting small quantities of narcotic type analgesics to control their own pain.

Another way to control pain is by inhibiting hormones called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins stimulate nerves at the site of injury and cause inflammation and fever. Certain drugs, including Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), act against such hormones by blocking the enzyme that is required for their synthesis.

Acupuncture, meditation, massages and other medications such as ointments and balms can help to reduce pain too.

Topical Capsaicin, a type of chilli pepper extract is believed to reduce pain of certain illnesses. However, it does promote some side effects.

Some people also believe that pain can be controlled by the mind.