Chronic pain can be a debilitating force in our lives. Our overall well-being and quality of life can suffer because of it. Despite prescription drugs being heavily promoted for pain management, they have serious downsides, like the risk of developing dependency. On the bright side, many natural alternatives can help effectively relieve chronic pain.
The ways to manage chronic pain range from medical-based practices to lifestyle changes. When it comes to exploring these options you can consult an experienced source. Consider a source like Icon Medical Center. It’s unlikely that you will simply come with your curiosities and leave solutions. It’ll require more work than that. Chances are it’ll be worth it.
Fitness and Active Lifestyle
A known effective way to naturally manage pain is regular physical exercise and activity. When we exercise our body releases endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers. They boost our mood and provide relief. Lower-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and yoga have been shown to relieve chronic pain over time.
Be mindful that pacing yourself is important when developing physical routines. It’s best to start slow and increase the intensity over time. Keep records of your results so your progress can be measured. Also, utilize patience. Relieving chronic pain with exercise takes time. Consult healthcare professionals like physical therapists and trainers for extra guidance.
Mind-Body
Mind-body strategies like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness practice can be effective. Managing pain, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation are a few benefits of mind-body practices. By calming the mind, the body follows. You can use these practices to hack into the autonomic nervous system to settle and help repair damaged nerves.
Anxiety and stress can increase pain. That’s why learning these psychological techniques pays off. Deep breathing exercises and meditation are known to relax the mind, alleviating pain. Meditation and deep mindfulness heighten our awareness of the present moment. When we are present we have clarity, which is a flexible resource for finding solutions to pain.
Heat and Cold Therapy
Heat and cold therapies are known sources of pain relief. Heat utilizes heating pads, warm towels, warm baths, and gels. It’s known to dilate blood vessels to increase circulation, relax muscles, and alleviate stiffness. Cold therapy has different properties. It can reduce inflammation and numb painful areas. Cold compresses and ice packs are usually used for swelling and acute injuries.
When using hot or cold therapy, it’s best to consult at least one healthcare professional. Be sure the application is appropriate for the condition. You’ll also want to exercise moderation, as both heat and cold therapies are time-sensitive practices. Incorrect application can worsen chronic pain.
Herbal Remedies and Supplements
There exist several herbs and supplements that have shown results for pain management. Turmeric and ginger, and willow bark are great examples. The compound curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and is found in Turmeric. Ginger and willow bark are known to relieve pain to some extent.
There are also sources like omega-3 fatty acids and flaxseed oil. These substances are known to help reduce inflammation. Chage and mugwort are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties as well. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist before utilizing or will remedies and settlements. It’s best to ensure no contraindications exist.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a therapy technique originating in China. The needles are inserted into specific points on the body. These points are called meridians and are known to regulate a source of energy within the body known as Qi. Directing and redirecting chi acupuncture creates several different effects.
The body’s healing response can be stimulated, which will in turn release endorphins. Conditions like back pain osteoarthritis and migraines have then been shown to respond well to acupuncture. When considering acupuncture for pain relief, you’ll want to seek out a qualified and licensed practitioner.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be an effective strategy for managing chronic pain. A physical therapist will assess your situation and develop a custom treatment plan. Plan well including exercises, stretches, and techniques to reduce pain and improve your body’s day-to-day condition.
Physical therapists also provide coaching on ways to correct body posture and mechanics. This not only helps to handle existing pain, but it also helps to prevent future problems when developing. The work of physical therapists is known to increase flexibility, strength, and endurance as well.
If you’re looking to hire a physical therapist to help with your recovery, consider asking prospective candidates some pt interview questions to determine whether they’re a good fit for your needs.