PUBLISHED ON May 19, 2021
Pain presents in a variety of different ways, from lower back painand shoulder pain to headaches and muscle tension. While pain is often associated with a physical manifestation, it often has underlying physiological root causes.
When pain presents itself, it is very common to reach for an over-the-counter pain reliever to help alleviate the pain. However, not all pain relievers will work effectively for every type of pain. Not to mention, they should never be a long-term solution, as over-the-counter medicines should only be used occasionally.
Fortunately, there are several natural and holistic ways to alleviate pain, depending on the underly causes. So, the next time you feel pain, before reaching for an over-the-counter pain reliever, try one of these things instead.
#1: Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which can manifest as pain. A deep tissue massage helps to stimulate the muscles, increases blood flow to the right areas and helps us relax and unwind. Many people drift off to sleep during massage therapy sessions to awaken refreshed and without pain.
#2: Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another effective way to try pain that works for many people. The procedure involves aligning the body’s internal networks to restore flow from one system to the next. Acupuncture can be just as relaxing as massage therapy and helps alleviate pain and discomfort.
#3: Chiropractic Treatments
Whether you see a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or osteopath, receiving regular chiropractic treatments helps ensure the skeletal system is aligned correctly. When it is not, we can experience pain and discomfort because nerve signals and body systems are not functioning correctly.
#4: Meditation
Learning proper meditation techniques can help you relax and lower nervous system responses that trigger the perception of pain and discomfort. Medication can also help alleviate muscle tension, stress, headaches, and other bodily aches and pains.
#5: Exercise
Different forms of exercise can help reduce and alleviate pain. Your physiotherapist, chiropractor, or osteopath can prescribe different exercises that will benefit you the most. For instance, various stretching exercises can help reduce muscle tension and soreness.
#6: Dietary Changes
Different spices, vitamins, and minerals have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and reduce pain. For example, adding curcumin, found in turmeric, is a great spice to incorporate into meals since it can reduce inflammation. Another option is to eat foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids, as Omega 3 provides natural pain relief and reduces inflammation.
As evident, there are several natural and holistic methods to treat pain that do not require taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Remember, before starting exercises or making dietary changes, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure these changes are appropriate for you and your type of pain.
If you have further questions about natural pain relief or to schedule a consultation appointment, please feel free to contact Active Life Wellness Center in Brampton at (905) 458-6677 today!
