Multimodal Pain Management

Multimodal Pain Management

Comprehensive multimodal pain management refers to combining multiple analgesic (pain targeting) drug classes or techniques to target different points along the pain pathway in the patient. As pets age, they are more likely to begin facing long-term chronic pain. This pain is usually the result of wear and tear on the joints, which causes osteoarthritis.

Chronic pain can manifest in several ways and, left untreated, can put pets at risk for depression, appetite changes, aggression, and anti-social behaviors. It can become a never-ending cycle, and the only way to combat this type of pain is to “get in front of it” by treating it before it returns.

In veterinary medicine, we are able to evaluate the specific needs of our patients with the help of a full medical workup and thorough examination. We also take into account a pet’s environment and lifestyle when assessing pain levels in patients. Multimodal pain management treatments often involve a mixture of medications and adjunctive therapies that work in conjunction with each other against different pain receptors in the body.

Using and managing a multimodal pain control regime takes time and a collaborative team effort with your veterinarian. We will constantly be monitoring the efficacy of the various therapies and will make changes when necessary. Remember, what works for one pet may not work for another. Treating chronic pain is one of the biggest challenges for both human and animal medicine. By utilizing a combination of techniques, veterinarians can tailor a pain management plan that suits the unique needs of each pet, ensuring optimal comfort and quality of life.