Different Ways to Manage Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is persistent pain that lasts longer than three months. It can be caused by many different factors including injuries, illnesses, mental health issues, and other medical conditions. Chronic pain can be very hard to treat because it often goes undiagnosed for years. There are many treatments available to help manage chronic pain. Below are five ways that can help you manage chronic pain.

 

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles at specific points along the body's meridians. These meridian points correspond to different organs and systems of the body, and they carry messages about how well those organs and systems are functioning.

By stimulating these points, acupuncture practitioners believe that they can help patients heal themselves. In addition to treating pain, acupuncture may also help manage chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, insomnia, arthritis, depression, anxiety, and cancer.

 

1. Massage Therapy

Massages help to relieve pain by increasing circulation and helping to release the body's natural painkillers, called endorphins. A massage also helps to relax tense muscles and reduce stress. Massages can help to prevent pain caused by injuries or illnesses.

A massage therapist uses many techniques to accomplish these goals, including:

●          Swedish massage

●          Deep tissue massage

●          Trigger point therapy

●          Sports

Massage therapy is often combined with other complementary treatments, such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and exercise.

 

1. Yoga

Yoga is a set of physical exercises and breathing practices designed to strengthen and relax the body and improve flexibility and balance. Yoga is believed to have originated thousands of years ago in India and was passed down orally over generations.

Today, yoga is practiced worldwide, and it is taught in many forms, including hatha yoga, Iyengar yoga, Ashtanga, and others. Practicing yoga regularly can provide numerous health benefits, including relief from back pain, lower blood pressure, improved posture, increased lung capacity, reduced risk of certain cancers, and weight loss.

 

1. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to health care that is based on the premise that the spine is the center of communication between the brain, nervous system, and body. When the spine is out of alignment due to injury, illness, or poor lifestyle choices, the body cannot function properly.

Chiropractors diagnose spinal disorders by assessing the position of the bones in the spine, looking for abnormal movement patterns, and evaluating nerve signals. Chiropractic adjustments involve applying gentle force to realign the spine. Once the spine is aligned, the doctor may recommend stretching exercises, massage therapies, nutritional supplements, dietary modifications, and other methods to treat musculoskeletal problems.

 

1. Herbal Medicine

 

Herbal medicine is the use of herbs and other natural substances to prevent, cure, or relieve symptoms associated with various illnesses.

Rosemary essential oil is one example of herbal medicine. It has many benefits such as relieving headaches, muscle and bone pain, and seizures. It reduces inflammation, relaxes smooth muscles, and boosts memory. Dilute essential oils in an oil such as olive oil, then apply topically. Use three to five drops per ounce of carrier oil. You can also add a few drops to your bath water.

Some medications can help reduce pain while others can help you cope with stress and anxiety related to the pain. Physical therapies can help strengthen muscles and joints, relax tense muscles and increase range of motion. All the listed above methods can help you learn ways to deal with pain and stress bringing you one step closer to chronic pain relief.

 

Sources:

1. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/8-tips-for-managing-chronic-pain

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