Pain Medication for Athletes

Athletes have higher risks for injuries because of the nature of their movements. Because injuries usually result in pain, athletes will turn to painkillers.

Painkillers not only allow an athlete to perform normal everyday activities without the pain but, perhaps more importantly, to engage in sports instead of being sidelined during the season.

However, addiction to painkillers is a real threat to physical and mental health for athletes.

Athletes who experience pain from sports injuries should ideally discuss their options with their sports medicine doctors at any of the Healthpointe clinics (such as the Ontario clinic near Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Montclair, and Chino). Many athletes become addicted to painkillers because of their reluctance to consult their doctors about their injuries. Painkillers act as band-aids to injuries – these can only mask the pain but do not treat the underlying injuries. The longer the treatment of the injuries is postponed, the longer the dependence on painkillers, and the higher the risks for addiction.

Despite the knowledge of the risks, athletes will keep on using pain medications as a way to cope with chronic and acute pain. Like the rest of the general population, the most common over-the-counter pain medications are Advil, Aleve, and aspirin.

Advil, along with Motrin, are brand names for ibuprofen, a painkiller that decreases pain by reducing the inflammation of the muscles. Aleve is a form of naproxen that reduces inflammation, which is also true for aspirin. Doctors usually recommend one of these painkillers depending on the individual case. For example, an athlete may prefer naproxen and aspirin over ibuprofen as these painkillers are less likely to cause hearth health issues.

It’s always best to discuss your pain medication options with your doctor to lessen the risk for addiction.

Call a sports medicine doctor at any of our clinics (such as the Perris clinic near Nuevo, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Homeland, Romoland, and Lakeview), for more information about pain medication.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Perris, which is conveniently located by Nuevo, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Homeland, Romoland, and Lakeview. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.