BBC Doctor Advocates for Non-Medication Pain Relief Approaches
During an appearance on BBC Morning Live, Dr Punam Krishan highlighted the importance of exploring alternative methods for pain management beyond traditional painkillers such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, and co-codamol. She emphasised that pain is a complex issue requiring a multifaceted approach rather than relying solely on medication.
Understanding Pain Management Complexity
Dr Krishan explained, "I feel like we have to talk about pain management because I think people think is it just one or the other. Pain is complex. Some people might have acute pain issues, and they’re only on medication for a short period of time. Some people might have chronic pain issues in which case they might require more support and it’s never just one thing." She stressed that a combination of strategies is often necessary for effective relief.
Evidence-Based Alternatives to Painkillers
Dr Krishan outlined several scientifically proven non-medication options that can complement or replace painkillers:
- Ice or Heat Therapy: For minor issues, applying ice or heat can be highly effective in reducing discomfort.
- Physical Activity: Keeping active through stretching, swimming, or gentle walking is crucial, though she acknowledged it can be challenging for some individuals.
- Structured Support: For chronic pain, referrals to physiotherapists for graduated exercise programs can provide tailored assistance.
She added, "So, alongside painkillers, there are lots of evidence-based things that we can do."
NHS-Provided Equipment and Therapies
Dr Krishan mentioned additional resources available through the NHS to support pain management:
- TENS Machines: These devices use electrical impulses to help alleviate pain.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Psychological approaches can assist in managing pain perception.
- Complementary Therapies: Options like acupuncture and herbal treatments offer alternative relief methods.
She advised, "It’s never just one thing, combination support, but always speak to your doctor if you’re finding that actually what you’re doing at the minute isn’t working for you." Dr Krishan also noted that while some people are averse to medication, it remains a valid option for those in pain.
UK Medication Shortages Intensify Need for Alternatives
This advice comes amid significant shortages of painkillers in the UK. Pharmacies are experiencing supply issues with certain strengths of co-codamol, which may persist until the end of June, and aspirin supplies are also low. The National Pharmacy Association (NPA), representing approximately 6,000 independent community pharmacies, reported difficulties in sourcing 30mg and 500mg co-codamol tablets, affecting other strengths as well.
Olivier Picard, chair of the NPA, stated, "Pharmacies are telling us they have struggled to order in supplies of some strengths of co-codamol, with a number reporting that supply disruption will last at least until June. This is deeply distressing for patients living with severe pain, and pharmacists are working tirelessly to find safe alternatives or manage very limited stock."
Impact of Co-Codamol Shortages
Co-codamol, a combination of paracetamol and codeine, is widely prescribed for conditions like toothache, period pain, and muscle pain. NHS data shows that around 1.25 million items of co-codamol were prescribed monthly in 2025, underscoring its common use.
Mr Picard further commented on the broader supply challenges, "Where pharmacies have supplies, they will be doing all they can to manage them to ensure patients get the medication they need. We face ever-growing issues with medicine supplies, which are compounded by the NHS not funding the full cost pharmacies have to pay to get the medicines patients need. The Government must urgently act to address a growing list of medicine shortages impacting patients and pharmacists alike, who end up at the sharp end of an increasingly difficult medicine supply system."
This situation highlights the critical importance of Dr Krishan's recommendations for non-medication pain relief methods, offering patients viable options during times of medication scarcity.
