4 Natural Pain Management Methods
Chronic pain associated with inflammation, arthritis, fibromyalgia, stress, and trauma plays a significant role in drastically diminishing health and quality of life. Fortunately, there are natural methods of managing pain that don’t require prescriptions or the dangers of over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen. Some studies, such as those recently published by Reuters, have revealed that ibuprofen has been shown to be as toxic as the prescription drug Vioxx, which was withdrawn from the market for being potentially dangerous.
Pain management starts at home
Our bodies are equipped to fight pain naturally, at the cellular level, by creating inflammation-fighting antioxidants. As we age, the production of these antioxidants slowly begins to decline year after year. However, with a few simple dietary and lifestyle changes, your body’s natural defenses for pain control can be supported and restored.
4 easy methods to control pain
• Massage – A brief massage is so effective in releasing endorphins and serotonin, the body’s natural painkillers, that it is now used regularly in hospitals to reduce anxiety levels in post-operative patients and speed up the recovery process. Whether you suffer from anxiety, fibromyalgia, tension headaches, back pain, or osteoarthritis, massage can help relieve pain by addressing inflammation at the cellular level.
• Yoga- Millions of people around the world practice the ancient mind-body technique of intricate stretching poses, not only because it’s a gentle way to build lean muscle, but also because it reduces the stress hormone cortisol in the body and promotes peace of mind. Studies published in the professional journal Spine reveal that practicing twice a week for two months can significantly reduce back pain, migraines, and arthritis.
• Hypnotherapy – Pain associated with past trauma, whether psychological, emotional, or physical, can significantly affect quality of life. Hypnotherapy, hypnosis, and guided imagery are fantastic methods for practicing the mind over matter method of natural pain relief. These methods are proving so effective in relieving low back pain, anxiety, and tension headaches that the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians now recommend them as part of treatment plans.
• Herbal supplements – Simple dietary changes, such as adding a few tablespoons of turmeric and ginger to a breakfast smoothie, can be as effective as over-the-counter pain relievers in reducing inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Although several studies reveal that a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and dark leafy greens can help alleviate a number of chronic conditions, it is always wise to consult with a doctor before relying on dietary supplements alone for pain management.
stress and pain
Chronic anxiety from the daily responsibilities of a stressful work environment, hectic schedule, and overwhelming bills creates an overload of the stress hormone cortisol in the body. As cortisol builds up in the body, inflammation and pain occur. Reducing stress with natural methods such as herbal supplements, massage, hypnosis, and yoga is an excellent method of pain control without medication.