Around 50 million American adults suffer from chronic pain, which explains why many are after less conventional treatment for pain management.

Doctors such as the doctors in pain management washington, dc have often prescribed medication that comes with various side effects and, in extreme cases, turns to addiction. Perhaps you’re tired of taking regular medication, and you’re on the hunt for alternative pain relief. 

Sounds familiar? Don’t worry; you’ve come to the right place. Here are the best options for you.

Exercise Regularly

Our guide to alternative pain relief wouldn’t be complete without mentioning exercise. When you commit to regular movement, then it boosts your aerobic condition that helps alleviate any discomfort.

Further, when we work out, our body becomes flooded with endorphins which is our version of painkillers. If you’re struggling, start slowly by taking a stroll or stretch and then build up once you’re used to it.

Tai chi is also fantastic for natural pain relief. This is where you make slow, gentle movements that coordinate with your breathing. Because of this, it’s often prescribed for pain management.

Biofeedback

Patients looking for natural pain remedies should try biofeedback. Here, patients are connected to electrical sensors that give you information about your body.

During biofeedback, you become aware of your bodily functions, from heart rate to blood pressure, so that you can adjust them regarding your pain symptoms. As a result, this relaxes certain muscles and reduces the discomfort associated with stress.

Cold and Heat Therapy 

Looking for alternative pain relief ideas? Then try cold and therapy.

This treatment is often reserved for physical injuries, where you apply an ice or heat pack to the affected area. Both forms increase blood flow to the area and prevent swelling, which is essential to reducing pain.

Meditation 

Around 500 million people meditate worldwide as it promises a wealth of health benefits, from reducing anxiety to promoting a good night’s sleep. But aside from this, meditation is also recommended alternative pain relief.

To do this, play a pleasing sound, close your eyes, and repeat it in your mind. Whenever you notice the pain, return to your sound, and sit with this for at least 10 minutes. Eventually, this will train you to manage the discomfort.

Further, patients seeking pain relief should try guided imagery. This is where you slip into deep relaxation and visualize your body as you hope it would be. The main benefit of guided imagery is it reduces stress, lowers cortisol levels, and decreases your pain perception.

CBD

Many patients take CBD as pain management as it’s effective but with zero side effects. For instance, CBD is popular with those who suffer from osteoarthritis and type diabetes. If you’re interested, head to your local CBD store to find a solution to your pain.

Turmeric

Otherwise known as Curcuma longa, turmeric is a root-derived from the ginger family. You’ll find it in spicy dishes, especially Indian cuisine, and it’s revered for its anti-inflammatory properties, the culprit behind many ailments.

So next time you whip up your favorite curry dish, chuck in two teaspoons or, if you’re feeling adventurous, add it to your morning latte.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is present in red wine, grapes, and berries. This magical ingredient has many health benefits, such as anti-cancer, brain protection, and life-prolonging advantages. Because of this, those suffering from chronic pain should take resveratrol supplements.

Therapeutic Massage

Aside from being relaxing, massage therapy can ease muscle and joint pain.

The masseuse will work out the tension from the affected area while relieving you from any stress you’re experiencing. Massages are effective because they momentarily distract you from the discomfort you’re experiencing as it overrides the pain signals.

Acupuncture

Hailing from 16th century China, acupuncture is believed to restore your body’s imbalance of energy.

To combat this, doctors use disposable needles to stimulate the patient’s 14 energy-carrying channels to help overcome illnesses. It also increases endorphins which eclipses any discomfort you’re feeling.

Acupuncture helps a range of ailments such as headaches, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis. It can also be part of a pain management plan, so consult your doctor before trying this treatment.

Hypnotherapy 

Many patients with chronic pain seek hypnotherapy as a treatment. This psychological shift helps you gain control over your physical body, including the discomfort. It’s important to note that hypnotherapy is beneficial for fibromyalgia and arthritis.

Fish Oil 

Fish oil is the go-to supplement for anyone with persistent pain. This is because it’s packed with anti-inflammatory properties which reduce any discomfort. If you haven’t tried this before, take two grams of fish oil every day, and you’ll see results.

Aromatherapy 

In aromatherapy, you use the fragrance of essential oils for pain relief. This treatment dates back thousands of years and played a huge role in India, Egypt, and Greece.

You can either add several drops into your massage oil or in a diffuser. Know certain oils offer pain relief which includes peppermint, rosemary, and lavender. But read the label to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is a talk therapy that helps patients identify and manage their negative thoughts or behaviors. For pain relief, you’ll learn how to change your awareness of pain and develop better coping strategies.

Because of this, CBT is fantastic for those with persistent pain such as headaches, orofacial discomfort, and back pain.

Try These Alternative Pain Relief Methods Today 

Hopefully, after reading this article, you’ll seek alternative pain relief for your discomfort.

Patients should prioritize regular exercise, take CBD, and meditate as alternative methods. You should also try CBT, acupuncture and add important supplements to your diet like fish oil. Good luck!

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