Three Non-Drug Ways To Manage Your Chronic Pain
If you've abused pain relievers in the past or cannot take them because they would cause unwanted side effects, then you will have to find other ways to manage your chronic pain. Here's a look at three safe and natural treatments that will make you more comfortable.
Chiropractic Care
If you suffer from chronic back pain, then chiropractic care seems like an obvious choice. However, chiropractic adjustments can also address pain that is not in the back. When your spine is in proper alignment, your weight is properly distributed across your joints and muscles as you walk, stand and perform other tasks. This prevents excessive strain on any one muscle or joint, which helps alleviate chronic pain. Chiropractic care can also improve flexibility, which makes it easier for you to move without putting excess stress on a painful area.
When your spine is out of alignment, it can also press on certain nerves, amplifying your perception of pain. By eliminating these pressure points, your chiropractor can bring down your pain levels. Contact a company like Rockwood Chiropractic for more information.
Essential Oil Therapy
This is a simple pain relieving therapy that you can perform in the comfort of your own home. Certain scents have the ability to reduce pain, and you can even rub certain essential oils directly onto your body for pain relief. Here are a few oils to try:
- Lavender essential oil is known for its pain relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. It can be applied directly to the skin without dilution. Try rubbing it on any sore areas.
- Chamomile is another all-around pain reliever, but it is best used for aromatherapy. Add a few drops to a diffuser filled with water, and let the scent surround you. Your pain should melt away as you become more relaxed.
- Clary sage is great for muscle-related pain. Dilute a few drops with olive or coconut oil, and massage it on sore spots.
Acupuncture
Studies have found that this ancient Chinese healing practice can be quite effective in alleviating pain. Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into the skin at very specific points. It is thought that these needles re-direct the flow of energy throughout the body, promoting relaxation and pain relief. This might sound painful, but most patients don't even feel the needles going in at all -- and those that do report feeling only a tiny pinch or tingle. For best results, you should plan on undergoing regular, weekly acupuncture treatments. Make sure you work with an acupuncturist who has experience treating patients with chronic pain.
