Pain Management Without Medication

There’s more than one way to manage pain — and not all of them involve medications. Non-drug approaches can help relieve discomfort, reduce side effects and support your overall well-being. Whether you’re managing short-term or chronic pain, your care team can help you explore the right options for your needs.

Before starting any treatment, talk to your healthcare provider and check with your insurance plan to confirm coverage for certain services. 

Medication-Free Pain Relief

• Acupuncture: This traditional practice stimulates specific points on your body to restore energy flow and ease pain. Many patients find it also improves their sense of balance and well-being. Sutter offers access to skilled acupuncturists across the network.
• Biofeedback: Using real-time data on heart rate and breathing, biofeedback helps you tune into your body’s signals. With guidance, you’ll learn to relax tense muscles and manage pain more effectively.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help you recognize thoughts and behaviors that may intensify pain. It’s also useful for managing anxiety, depression, stress and sleep problems. Learn more about care options through Sutter’s behavioral health services.
• Exercise: Movement matters. Regular physical activity boosts strength, flexibility and mood, all while releasing natural pain-fighting endorphins. Your provider can help you build a safe and effective routine.
• Guided imagery: This simple mind-body practice uses visualization to reduce stress and ease discomfort. Picture a peaceful setting, focus on the details, and let your mind help your body relax.
• Massage therapy: Targeted massage can release tight muscles, reduce tension, and support emotional health. It’s a hands-on therapy that can play a meaningful role in your pain care plan.
• Mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness teaches you to stay present and respond differently to pain. Sutter’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program offers classes and resources to help you build this lifelong skill.
• Physical and occupational therapy: Personalized plans can improve your movement, function and comfort. Therapists work with you on stretches, exercises, and everyday strategies for living well with less pain.
• Temperature therapy: Hot and cold treatments offer simple, at-home ways to reduce discomfort. Heat helps relax muscles and improve circulation, while cold reduces swelling and numbs sore areas.
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): TENS units deliver gentle electrical pulses that may block pain signals and prompt your body to release endorphins. Many devices are available over the counter.
• Yoga: Through focused breathing and movement, yoga can enhance flexibility, reduce tension, and support emotional balance. It’s a whole-person approach to managing pain. 

Treating Related Health Concerns 

Sometimes pain is linked to other health conditions. Addressing these issues can make a big difference in how you feel each day. 

• Anxiety: Chronic pain and anxiety often go hand in hand. Getting support for both can improve your ability to function and heal.
• Depression: Mood and pain are closely connected. Certain medications and therapies can help manage both conditions together. We're here to help when you're struggling with depression and low mood.
• Insomnia: Poor sleep can make pain feel worse. Sutter’s sleep medicine services offer solutions to help you rest better and reduce nighttime discomfort. 

Take the Next Step

You don’t have to manage pain alone. Talk with your provider to create a care plan that works for you.