Patches are a great way to get medication onto your skin. But they can also be dangerous if you use too much or too often.

You should change your patches every 72 hours. And you should rotate the sites where you put them, according to your doctor’s instructions.

Medicated pain relief patch, plaster. man with back pain. Pain relief and health care concept isolated on white.

1. Take a Bath

In an effort to make lidocaine patches more convenient for patients, researchers at UVA are working on a patch that would release a controlled amount of medicine through skin absorption and temperature sensors. They believe the new design would give patients greater control over their pain levels and less risk of overdosing or addiction.

Apply the patch to clean, dry skin that’s free from lotions and oils. Choose a flat area of skin such as the upper chest, back, or arm.

2. Put on a Mask

If you’re using a Kailo Patch, it’s best to put on a mask so that you can breathe in the oxygen and avoid breathing in any airborne germs. This is especially important if you’re on a flight or in crowded public spaces.

A good mask should fit closely over your nose, mouth and chin. Make sure the mask doesn’t have gaps around its edges, as this can let respiratory droplets leak in and out.

CDC recommends wearing a mask indoors in public regardless of vaccination status. If you’re in a high-risk COVID-19 community, CDC also suggests you wear one in the hospital.

3. Massage the Area

Massage can be a powerful tool for relieving pain. It can help increase blood flow, stretch muscles and improve lymphatic circulation to remove waste products, toxins and excess water.

It can also help relax and relieve stress. But, it should not be a replacement for regular medical care.

You should let your doctor know you are trying massage, and be sure to follow any standard treatment plans.

You may need to adapt the modalities you use in your massage session, depending on whether your client is taking medications for a health condition or has a particular physical challenge. For example, if a client is on medication for high blood pressure or pain, you should end each session with more invigorating strokes, such as fast friction and effleurage.

4. Take a Hot Bath

The hot water of a bath can help you relax your muscles and ease the stress of a long day. It can also improve blood flow to your muscles and relieve pain from poor circulation.

Research has shown that a warm bath can increase your body temperature, calming your nervous system and releasing endorphins to boost mood. It also helps to reduce chronic pain and inflammation.

However, beware of taking a hot bath when you have a heart condition as it can cause your pulse rate to decrease and lower your blood pressure. Call your care team if you experience any of these symptoms.

5. Do Yoga

Yoga is a form of mind-body exercise that combines stretching and muscle control to improve fitness, stress relief, and overall wellness. It has been practiced for thousands of years and has recently been shown to reduce pain, enhance immune system functioning, and increase quality of life.

The key to getting started with yoga is finding a safe, therapeutic class led by a qualified teacher who can guide you in poses that are appropriate for your chronic pain. It is also important to communicate your health and specific limitations with the teacher before each class.

Summary:

If you’re ready to try yoga, start with simple poses that you can get into (and out of). You can also add a few props like pillows or blankets to support your body as you begin.

Bill Sutton
5 Surprising Ways to Use Pain Patches