Imagine waking up every day to the same unrelenting Pain Management —each step. Each movement, a constant reminder of a chronic condition. For millions of people in India, this is a daily reality. Whether it stems from arthritis, nerve damage, or even post-surgical recovery, chronic pain affects not just the body. But every aspect of a person’s life—mental well-being, independence, and the ability to enjoy simple pleasures. Managing pain isn’t just about reducing discomfort—it’s about giving people their lives back.
In India, around 19% of the population suffers from some form of chronic pain. Yet access to effective pain relief still limited for many. Too often, people rely on traditional painkillers without knowing there are newer. More effective treatments available that can provide sustained relief and improve their overall quality of life.
Arthritis and Nerve Pain management
Recent advances in pain management offer a broader range of options beyond conventional painkillers. Treatments such as transdermal patches, orodispersible tablets. And long-lasting plasters containing medications like ketoprofen are revolutionizing how we approach chronic pain. Transdermal patches, for example, deliver medication steadily through the skin, offering continuous relief and minimizing the need for frequent dosing. This approach not only simplifies treatment but also ensures a consistent level of pain control, especially for conditions like arthritis or nerve pain.
Orodispersible tablets, which dissolve quickly in the mouth, provide a convenient, fast-acting solution for acute pain episodes. They are particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing or need immediate relief. This type of delivery is becoming increasingly popular as it reduces the gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with traditional oral medications.
Dr Sandeep P. Gajbe, Consultant Intensivist and In-charge of Critical Care Medicine, HCG Hospital Nagpur says, — At the same time, long-lasting plasters containing medications such as ketoprofen offer localised, sustained pain relief by directly targeting the affected area. These plasters work over extended periods, often up to 24 hours. Reducing the need for multiple doses and avoiding the systemic side effects linked to oral painkillers, such as stomach issues or drowsiness. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery allows medications to released more precisely at the site of pain. This technology is paving the way for treatments that more effective and tailor to specific conditions. Reducing the trial-and-error process of finding the right medication.
Personalised Pain Management Plans
One of the most effective ways to manage pain is through personalised care. Pain is a deeply personal experience; treatments should be just as individualised. Understanding the root causes, a person’s medical history, and how they respond to therapies is key to creating effective pain management plans. Personalised care goes beyond medications; it considers the patient’s lifestyle, mental health, and support system.
Many healthcare centres in India now offer such tailored plans, combining advanced pain treatments with therapies and mental health support. This holistic approach can be particularly beneficial for patients with complex pain conditions like cancer-related or nerve-damage pain, improving outcomes and enhancing their quality of life.
Technology and Innovation in Pain Management
Technology also plays a critical role in reshaping pain management. From wearable devices that track pain in real time to telemedicine, which provides access to care in even the most remote areas, innovations are making pain treatment more accessible and effective. For example, wearable tech can monitor physical activity, sleep patterns, and stress levels, helping healthcare providers better understand how pain impacts daily life. Telemedicine is allowing patients to consult with specialists from home, reducing the burden of travel, especially for those living in rural areas.
Expanding Access to Pain Relief in India
Dr Sandeep P. Gajbe, commented, “Despite these advancements, access to effective pain relief remains a challenge in many parts of India. Particularly in rural areas where specialized care is hard to come by. Programs like the National Programme for Palliative Care are attempting to bridge this gap. Still, more needs to be done to ensure that everyone has access to the latest pain management options.”
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Pain can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be faced alone. Whether you are dealing with chronic pain or know someone who is, it’s important to remember that there are effective solutions available. By combining innovative treatments, personalized care, and the latest technology, we can help people regain control of their lives—because no one should live in pain.