You don’t have to be an Olympic athlete to know how much pain can disrupt your life. Backaches, migraines, arthritis and recovery from surgery can make everyday activities difficult. When you’re hurting, it’s worth asking: What are my options for relief?

The answer depends on the pain and the person, in consultation with their medical professional. Non-opioid medications can help with specific conditions, including injuries, arthritis and nerve pain. Physical therapy and appropriate exercise can improve movement and function. Acupuncture, massage and mindfulness may help with certain pain conditions, while cognitive behavioral therapy offers skills for managing pain’s daily impact. These approaches can complement one another in a personalized treatment plan.

Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn recently shared her experience. After an Olympic injury, Vonn says opioids helped initially, but she wanted another option because she wasn’t tolerating them well. She was later prescribed a non-opioid medication approved for adults with moderate to severe acute pain.

That’s why education matters, especially before a medical visit. Knowing what to ask is a starting point for discussing benefits, risks and alternatives.