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The things you don’t know about pain and pain relief can hurt you. Huge leaps have been achieved in the understanding of pain and its treatment throughout the last decade. Pain that was once considered untreatable is now manageable.

Medical evidence shows that many beliefs about pain and pain relief are no true. Here is what experts in this field say you should know about 5 of the most common pain relief myths:

Pain relief misconception 1: No pain, no gain.

This belief is prevalent among bodybuilders and weekend athletes. But there is no supporting evidence for the notion that you can increase strength by exerting muscles to the point of pain. A related notion, “work though the pain” is also incorrect. Taking a break to repair muscles and bring relief for pain might not be macho, but it’s a smart thing to do. You might also need to alter your exercise routine with cross training; lighter, more frequent workouts; and appropriate shoes.

Pain relief misconception 2: its all in my head.

Pain is a complicated issue, involving both mind and body. For example, back pain has no known cause in the majority of cases, and stressful events in life can make it worse. But that doesn’t mean that its not real. Pain is an invisible problem that others cannot see or feel, but that does not mean its all in your head.

Pain relief misconception 3: I just have to live with the pain.

There are many options for pain relief. They include relaxation techniques, physical therapy, glucosamine supplements, physical exercise, over the counter and prescription medications, surgery, and complementary treatments like acupuncture and massage. It might not always be possible to completely control your pain, but you can utilize many different ways to help you manage it much better.

Pain relief misconception 4: Only the weak go to a doctor for pain relief.

Older adults have more of a tendency to “grin and bear it.” Putting up with the occasional headache or minor injury is one thing. However, enduring chronic pain can impair your functioning and quality of life. It can lead to depression, tiredness from sleep loss, anxiety, inability to work, and impaired relationships.

Most forms of pain can and should be treated effectively.  If you are experiencing pain, you owe it to yourself to set a meeting with your doctor. Relief may just be around the bend.

Pain relief misconception 5: I’ll become addicted to the pain medication.

Health care providers start with a conservative approach to pain relief and prescribe non-narcotic pain-relief medications, which are not addictive. Doctors may prescribe narcotics, such as codeine and morphine, if pain becomes acute, such as when treating cancer pain. Many people fear becoming addicted to narcotic medications. Physical dependence is not the same as addiction. And, physical dependence isn’t a problem as long as you do not stop taking the narcotics all at once. Addiction is rarely an issue, unless you have a history of drug or alcohol addiction. If you do, talk this over with your doctor.

REFERENCE: (2009) 5 Common Pain and Pain Relief Myths Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/5-common-myths-about-pain-and-pain-relief?ecd=wnl_cbp_112609