Pain

Pain is a common symptom reported by HIV+ people.  Pain can be located in areas which may include (but are not limited to) the joints, muscles, stomach, or head. Treatment of pain must start with a careful assessment of cause.  Here are some common treatments for general pain and pain from peripheral neuropathy:

General pain
  • A physiatrist may prescribe pain-killers, anti-inflammatories, or other medications.
  • A physiotherapist can
    • use ultrasound or ice to decrease swelling which might be causing pain.
    • provide electrotherapy, which uses electrical stimulation on the body, to reduce pain and improve function.
  • A physiotherapist or physiatrist can provide exercises that can strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight muscles, which can relieve pain.
  • A physiatrist, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist can teach you about proper posture and other methods of movement to prevent further strain on the painful area of the body.
  • Hydrotherapy can help ease tight muscles and stiff joints, and reduce pain.  Physiotherapists or physiatrists can determine if hydrotherapy is necessary.

Other Rehabilitation Therapies

    • A social worker can help you work through any emotional issues that might arise from the pain, or may be contributing to the pain.
    • A social worker or occupational therapist can teach you some techniques such as meditation or visualization to help you control your pain levels.

Complementary Therapies

    • A naturopath can suggest supplements that might ease pain.
    • Acupuncture can decrease pain for some people.
    • Massage therapy can decrease pain by easing tight muscles.
Pain resulting from peripheral neuropathy.  

Peripheral neuropathy can cause pain and/or numbness in the hands and feet, which can lead people to trip and fall, and drop items.  Treatments include those listed for pain above, plus;

  • A physiotherapist can provide electrotherapy, which uses electrical stimulation on the body, to reduce pain and improve function.
  • If the sense of touch is affected, an occupational therapist or physiotherapist can teach safety techniques to prevent burning the skin on hot items (e.g. drawing a bath or shower, handling hot beverages like coffee or tea).
  • A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can create a plan that helps decrease sensitivity to pain.
  • A physiatrist may recommend orthotics or other equipment to strengthen and support the affected body part.
  • A physiatrist, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist can give suggestions around footwear that will reduce pain and irritation.
  • An occupational therapist can provide home adjustment suggestions to prevent trips and falls.
  • A physiotherapist can prescribe a cane or walker if balance has become an issue.
  • An occupational therapist can help you get access to tools such as a cane or walker if balance becomes a concern.
  • An occupational therapist can provide suggestions of gadgets that may help you to overcome difficulties with day to day tasks (e.g. electric can openers).

Other Rehabilitation Therapies

    • A social worker or occupational therapist can
      • help you work through any emotional issues that might arise from the pain, or may be contributing to the pain.
      • teach you some techniques such as meditation or visualization to help you control your pain levels.