Online pain doctor: Can telehealth consultations help?

Overview

Chronic pain affects up to half of adults and can impact daily life, mood, and wellbeing. While there's no single cure, management include lifestyle changes, therapy, physiotherapy, and specialist care. online doctors can help manage symptoms and help you achieve better quality of life. It is believed that 30-50% of adults currently have or have had a persistent pain lasting for more than 3 months. This is a chronic condition which is often secondary to an underlying health condition (for example, arthritis), but it is also common for the cause of the pain to be uncertain (the cause has not revealed itself on investigations such as blood tests or scans). Note: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prescribing is always at the strict clinical discretion of the doctor. Telehealth is not suitable for acute trauma or conditions requiring physical manipulation/examination. If you are in severe distress or have symptoms of a stroke or heart attack, call 000 immediately.

What is chronic pain?

Chronic pain is often difficult to live with, as it can disrupt an individual's ability to perform their activities of daily living. As a result, it can cause considerable disruption to daily life, and this ongoing distress has the potential to seriously affect a person's quality of life. It is usual for there to be associated symptoms with the chronic pain such as; a feeling of generally being unwell, fatigued, "brain fog", depressed mood and/or anxiety. If you've been dealing with persistent pain, you know it can affect everything—from your work and sleep to the simple joy of spending time with loved ones. Chronic pain doesn't just strain your body; it can take a toll on your emotional and mental health. In Australia, chronic pain is a major health burden. Nearly one in five Australians aged 45 and above experiences chronic pain1. In 2020, about 3.37 million people across the country reported chronic pain2. Chronic pain generally means pain that lasts longer than three months or beyond the expected healing time3. It can stem from various sources, such as arthritis, nerve damage, muscle strain, migraines, or pelvic pain. Sometimes, even after the body heals, the nervous system stays on high alert or inflammation persists, causing pain to continue. It's not simply "all in your head"; the pain is real and can be effectively managed.

Where does chronic pain occur?

Chronic pain isn't picky. It can strike anywhere in the body. Some common spots include:

• Back: Think of lower back pain from an old injury or neck pain from too much screen time.
• Head: Tension headaches and migraines are frequent (and unwelcome) visitors.
• Joints: Conditions like arthritis or old sports injuries can cause chronic joint pain.

What causes chronic pain?

There are a number of reasons why chronic pain develops. Sometimes, it's the aftermath of an injury that never fully healed. Other times, it's tied to underlying conditions like fibromyalgia, endometriosis, or nerve damage. Even stress and mental health can play a role.

When to seek medical help for chronic pain

To help make decisions about how to tackle the pain, you may need to consider what matters most to you – what would you like to prioritise in your care? What are the benefits and risks of management available? What is the likely long-term outlook for your pain? It will be difficult to think about these without the support of your GP. You should expect your GP to recognise and mange your chronic pain as valid and recognise that everybody feels pain differently (past and present life experiences, such as emotional trauma, can affect how pain is felt). The GP should try to gain a deep understanding of how the pain affects your day-to-day life (including your career, your relationships and your sleep) and in turn how your activity of daily living affects the pain. While chronic pain is persistent, sudden changes can indicate a medical emergency. Call 000 or visit an Emergency Department immediately if you experience:

• Sudden, severe 'thunderclap' headache.
• Chest pain or tightness.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (associated with back pain).
• Sudden numbness or weakness in limbs

It's also important to seek professional help if:

• Your pain is worsening or is seriously affecting your mobility, sleep, mood, or daily life.
• You notice new or concerning symptoms, such as numbness, severe swelling, unexplained weight loss, or if your current pain persists despite management.
• You intend to use natural remedies alongside your medicines, as coordinated care helps prevent unintended effects.

If your pain is severe, impacting your daily life, or not getting better with at-home remedies, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can help you create a personalised pain management plan.

Chronic pain management options

Chronic pain can be difficult to manage because there is no simple fix & there is not one management that works well for everyone. It may be unrealistic to expect pain to be resolved completely, but there are steps which can be taken to help you live well with pain (and its associated issues) and be able to perform activities of daily living. The good news is that you have more options than you might think. While medication can be helpful, it's not the only answer. There are a multitude of natural, effective ways to manage pain and reclaim your life.

Medications for chronic pain

The GP may discuss prescription medication management options, which affect chemicals in the brain that are involved in the sensation of pain, as well as mood and emotions. Medical research indicates that these medications can help some people who have chronic pain, even in people who do not have depression and or anxiety. There is a misconception that painkiller medication are mainstays of management for chronic pain. This is because they were used a lot in the past for chronic pain but are no longer recommended as medical research shows that overall, there is no benefit on an individual's chronic pain, but the risk of harm and serious side-effects are very high. If you are already on these medications, it is important that you discuss this with your GP. Note: Please note that Hola Health doctors do not prescribe controlled medicines or drugs of dependence via telehealth. Our doctors focus on non-addictive pain management strategies and referrals to specialists. As the impact of chronic pain continues to grow, many people are looking into natural or holistic ways to find relief alongside standard medical management. These methods can sometimes provide gentler, long-term relief without relying solely on medication. Let's explore some evidence-backed natural ways that may help ease chronic pain.

At-home remedies for pain management

1. Heat therapy: Heat helps relax muscles and increase blood flow, which can ease pain. Try warm baths, showers, or even a hot water bottle.
2. Cold therapy: For some types of pain, like inflammation or acute injuries, cold can be your best friend. Use ice packs, frozen veggies, or a cool compress.
3. Gentle movement: Exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but gentle movement like yoga, tai chi, or swimming can work wonders. They improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and release endorphins (natural painkillers).
4. Relaxation techniques: Stress can amplify the chronic pain. You can find pain relief through meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation. Even just a few minutes a day can make a difference.
5. Sleep: Think of sleep as your body's reset button. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. A good sleep routine can help you wake up feeling refreshed and better able to cope with pain.
6. Diet: What you eat matters. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and ease pain. Eating whole foods, especially plenty of fruits, vegetables, omega-3-rich fish such as salmon or sardines, along with nuts and seeds, can naturally calm inflammation. Limiting processed foods, refined sugars, and alcohol may help minimise inflammation-related flare-ups.
7. Mindfulness: This is all about being present in the moment. By focusing on your breath and sensations, you can train your brain to respond to pain differently.
8. Supplements: Certain supplements like turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium may help with pain. But always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.

Note: This information is for educational purposes only. You should consult a doctor or medical practitioner before attempting home remedies or new wellness programs to ensure they are safe for your specific condition.  

Multidisciplinary support and therapy options for chronic pain

It is very likely that the GP will need the support of specialists and other allied health practitioners to support you. For example: Physiotherapy and exercise: A physiotherapist and/or exercise physiologist can tailor an individualised management plan for you to maintain as physically active as possible and keep fit. This may involve moving around your home and walking more, or it may include group physical activity with an instructor. It is important for you to listen to your body and how it feels, going at a pace which feels right for you. The risk of harm of physical activity is very low, but the overall benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing can be great. Think of physical therapists as your personal trainers for pain management. They'll assess your specific needs and create a customised exercise plan to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. This can help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further injury. They might also use techniques like manual therapy (hands-on techniques to mobilise joints and soft tissues) and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation. Many physiotherapists in Australia now offer telehealth options, allowing you to receive expert care and support from your home. Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists are the masters of adapting. They'll work with you to find ways to perform everyday activities—like getting dressed, cooking, or working—with less pain and more efficiency. They might suggest assistive devices, teach you energy conservation techniques, or help you modify your environment to make it more pain-friendly. Psychological support: Chronic pain may well have an impact on how you think, feel and behave. In turn, your thoughts and overall mood can affect how you feel pain. This does not mean that your symptoms are "all in the mind". Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and/or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are talking therapies which a psychologist can use to help you manage your pain and associated symptoms, ultimately reducing the impact on your activities of daily living. CBT helps you break the cycle of negative thoughts and behaviours that can worsen pain. You'll learn coping skills, relaxation techniques, and strategies to manage stress and improve your overall well-being. Acupuncture: Seeing an acupuncturist. Despite this involving needle, the risk of long term / serious harm is very low, and medical research indicates that it can help some people's pain for up to 3 months. This ancient practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. While it might sound intimidating, most people find it painless. Acupuncture is thought to stimulate the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) and reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest it can be effective for chronic pain conditions like back pain, osteoarthritis, and headaches. Acupuncture is gaining popularity in Australia as a complementary management and may help some people with chronic pain when combined with other management. Massage Therapy: A good massage isn't just a luxury; it's a legitimate form of pain relief. It can loosen tight muscles, improve blood flow, and reduce stress hormones. Different types of massage, like Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, or myofascial release, may be beneficial for different types of pain. Biofeedback: This high-tech therapy involves using sensors to monitor bodily functions like heart rate, muscle tension, and skin temperature. You'll learn to control these functions through relaxation techniques and visual or auditory feedback. This can help reduce pain, stress, and improve overall well-being. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): This portable device sends mild electrical currents to the skin, which can help block pain signals and stimulate the release of endorphins. TENS units are often used for conditions like arthritis, back pain, and nerve pain. Virtual Reality (VR): VR isn't just for gaming; it's also a powerful tool for pain management. By immersing you in a virtual world, VR can distract you from pain, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. It's been used to help people cope with acute pain, chronic pain, and even phantom limb pain. Support groups and community resources: The GP may signpost you to various support groups or organisations. These may help get you in touch with other individuals with chronic pain, allowing you to share experiences and advise each other on how to manage your chronic pain and associated symptoms. Living with chronic pain is tough, but you don't have to do it alone. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for encouragement and understanding. Remember, you have the power to take control of your pain and live the life you want. Remember, finding the right therapy or combination of therapies is a personal journey. Don't hesitate to explore different options and talk to your healthcare providers to find what works best for you. Note: These services are not provided directly by Hola Health and are included for informational purposes only.

When to consider a specialist for your chronic pain?

If your chronic pain and associated symptoms are not managed with the above methods, the GP will consider referral to a specialist pain management clinic to help ascertain if a specific intervention, assessment or specialist management is required for your pain. If the GP suspects a particular underlying cause which cannot be managed in the community a referral to a particular specialist may also be warranted.

Is there a cure for chronic pain?

For many people, chronic pain is an ongoing condition. But that doesn't mean you can't live a full and active life. The goal is to find the right combination of management that work for you.

Can telehealth help?

Absolutely! Telehealth consultations are a convenient way to connect with a doctor or therapist from the comfort of your own home. It's a great option if you have limited mobility or difficulty accessing in-person care. In many cases, the best relief comes from combining natural or complementary therapies with conventional medical care. Australia's healthcare system now widely supports telehealth consultation for chronic pain management, enabling you to consult a pain specialist or allied health professional from home.

How Hola Health can help

Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with registered doctors and nurse practitioners - from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Depending on your situation, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• 24/7 medical advice and healthcare assessments via telehealth.
•  Med cert for work or personal leave, if clinically appropriate.
•  Referrals to specialists or in-person services, if clinically appropriate.
• Instant scripts online (if clinically appropriate) and script refills, at the practitioner's discretion and if clinically suitable.

Note: Telehealth is not suitable for all conditions. Hola Health does not replace your regular doctor or medical practitioner, specialist, or emergency services. If you are unsure whether telehealth is right for your situation, we recommend speaking with your usual healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 000.

Conclusion

Chronic pain is real, widespread, and often long-lasting, but that doesn't mean it's beyond your control. Thoughtful use of natural remedies, together with proper medical care, can aid in pain relief, boost movement, and improve your quality of life.

FAQs

What is the best natural pain relief for chronic pain?

There isn't a magic fix that works for everyone. The best result often comes from a combination of strategies—exercise, mindfulness, balanced eating, and complementary therapies, all tailored to your situation.

Can natural remedies replace pain medication?

Not entirely. Natural and lifestyle changes are means to support your medical care, not replace it. Your doctor can advise whether medication is needed and for what duration.

Are herbal pain remedies safe to take with prescriptions?

Not always. Some herbs and supplements may interfere with prescription medicines, affect the liver or kidneys, or change the way medicines work. Always check with your GP or a pharmacist before adding them.

How long does it take for natural pain relief to work?

It depends. Some benefits, for example, from gentle exercise or heat and cold therapy, may be felt quickly. Others, such as dietary adjustments or mindfulness practices, might take weeks or longer. Consistency and patience are key.

Can I consult a doctor online for chronic pain management in Australia?

Yes. Many GPs, pain specialists, and allied health practitioners across Australia offer online appointments, allowing you to access the right care from home.