Pain comes in many different forms, and there are several underlying reasons for it. However, there is one that is common. Inflammation is often a factor and can itself have many underlying causes. It could be allergies, chronic infections, aging, smoking, or autoimmune diseases. Past trauma operations can be another cause, as can lifestyle factors such as occupation, nutrition, and activity level.
Traditional Therapies
More often than not, when you speak to your physician about chronic pain, prescription drugs are often the first course of action. Drugs tend to be prescribed because they offer immediate relief. There is, however, a downside to these drugs and that is that they are often highly addictive. When used for long periods of time, they also have an adverse effect on your body. For these reasons, an increasing number of people are looking to natural pain relief therapies to help them manage their pain. Natural pain relief also brings the benefit of:
- Lower cost
- No negative side effects
- Treatment for the source of the problem, not just the pain
- Long-term usage can lessen or eliminate the chronic pain
If you’re interested in using more natural pain relief, you have several options.
Acupuncture
This traditional Chinese medicine is based on enhancing the flow of qi or energy, throughout the body. It is thought that when the qi is blocked, symptoms such as pain appear. An acupuncturist relieves pain by removing the blockages of the qi using tiny needles.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
An anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Pan Asian Modified Mediterranean diet, is thought to work because you’re eating fewer foods that trigger your body’s inflammatory response. Foods include fresh organic fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats such as olive oil, and omega-3 rich foods.
CBD Oil
Many chronic pain sufferers are turning to CBD oil very effectively. Products can be purchased online from companies such as copecbd.com. CBD (cannabidiol) is believed to interact with receptors in your brain and immune system, thereby relieving pain.
Chiropractic
This therapy is based on the belief that vertebrae that are not correctly aligned can affect surrounding nerves, muscles, and bones, resulting in pain and mobility issues. A chiropractor adjusts the alignment of your bones, usually in your spine, to maintain the correct alignment. When the vertebrae are aligned, it allows the body’s energy and self-healing ability to work.
Exercise
Taking a brisk walk around the park or swimming, might not be the first things you want to do when you’re experiencing pain. They are, however, some of the best things you can do. Regular, moderate exercise increases your breathing, blood flow, body temperature and energy flow. Exercise also keeps your joints and muscles loose and moving. It is, however, imperative that you don’t overdo it as you may find yourself doing more harm than good.
Grounding
Grounding is the practice of walking barefoot on a natural surface, for at least 20 minutes every day. It is believed that this connects you with the natural healing energy of our planet. You’re absorbing negatively charged free electrons which are neutralizing positively charged free radicals, thereby interfering with the inflammatory process.