Supporting a better understanding of common types of pain
Here we assemble overviews of common types of pain, explore the causes, signs and symptoms of each, review how the pain affects patients' quality of life and summarise the latest evidence-based management recommendations.
Common types of pain
Joint pain and osteoarthritis
Pain, inflammation or stiffness in the joints may affect people’s ability to move freely and perform simple daily tasks, and can reduce self-esteem and limit ambitions.1,2
Together with education, a range of pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques is available to help manage pain and flare-ups3–5 and help keep patients moving.
Sprains and strains
Muscle pain such as those that occur after a strain or sprains is particularly common in individuals aged 18–34 years,6 and sprains and strains are more common among those who play sport.7
These soft-tissue injuries are a frequent cause of pain, but can be managed with a variety of physiotherapeutic and pharmaceutical interventions7 helping patients to get back to enjoying their life.
Back pain
Back pain is a symptom that affect most people at some point in their lives. Lower back pain is a particularly common problem, causing significant negative impact on a person's life, activity and happiness.8,9
The underlying causes of back pain can be difficult to uncover, but effective symptomatic relief is available to help patients manage their pain.10,11
Fever
Fever is a common sign and symptom observed in a variety of clinical settings and is a natural reaction when the body is ill.
Management of fever differs in adults and children and both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches can help reduce the raised body temperature.12–15
Headaches and migraine
Headaches and migraine are prevalent and disabling.16 Assessment is important for differential diagnosis for ruling out other more serious causes17 and for appropriate treatment.
Continuing Professional Development
Here you will find a collection of educational resources to help you further develop your skills and knowledge in the area of pain relief
