Many divers suffer from the occasional sprain or strain, and some of us have chronic issues that can cause intense pain just when it is least appreciated. If you have a prescription for any type of muscle relaxant, the likelihood that you can take it before diving is slim to none; let’s take a look at some common problems that could be associated with consuming muscle relaxants, as well as some possible solutions to your pain which might work well at times when you would rather dive than lie on the couch.
How Muscle Relaxants Work
Muscle relaxants are drugs which affect skeletal muscle function in order to alleviate symptoms like pain, hyper-reflexia, and muscle spasms. There are two major therapeutic drug groups which are considered to be muscle relaxants. The first group are called neuromuscular blockers, and the second group are called spasmolytics.
Neuromuscular Blockers are often used to cause paralysis during emergency medicine and intensive care; they act by interfering with transmissions at the neuromuscular end plates, and are rarely prescribed for therapeutic use. If you’re on a neuromuscular blocker, you will not be able to do anything, much less dive.
Spasmolytics, on the other hand, are centrally acting, and are commonly used to alleviate all kinds of muscular pains and spasms. They are often used for lower back pain, fibromyalgia, tension headaches, and other muscle aches. As they can have severe side effects and as they are linked with dependency, they are often prescribed for acute pain only. Side effects include dizziness and drowsiness, and they often interact adversely with other drugs. While some users develop a tolerance to these drugs, they almost always cause some sedative effects because they inhibit the normal action of the body’s Central Nervous System. People are normally advised to stay away from driving and operating heavy machinery while using muscle relaxants, and that warning extends to diving, as well. Diving and muscle relaxants do not mix.
Controlling Pain
If you need to keep pain under control while diving, it is best to consult your doctor. Depending on the cause of the pain and its severity, he or she may be able to provide you with some excellent advice about which over the counter pain relievers might work best for you.
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen sodium are good for a variety of pains and strains, and in some cases, exercise that involves light stretching and movement can help to keep chronic pain from becoming worse.
Some topical pain relievers work very well; rubs such as Tiger Balm, Arnica Gel, and other topicals can help to keep minor pain at bay. Some divers find relief at the hands of massage therapists, physical therapists, and holistic medical practitioners; depending on the problem and its severity, you might find that there are a number of workable solutions available.
Preventing pain before, during, and after diving is often a matter of common sense, too. Don’t overdo it, and if you rarely exercise, be prepared to pay the price. Keeping your muscles strong and staying in good physical condition can help you enjoy diving – along with other activities associated with daily life – a whole lot more, completely eliminating the need for drug therapy of any kind.