We all experience pain from time to time, whether that is the occasional headache or back pain from sitting for too long. Over-the-counter medication has been the best way of dealing with different types of pain for a long time. However, taking medication for a long time can lead to complications such as persistent pain that no longer responds to medication or stomach problems due to the prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). For this reason, those living with chronic pain should find alternative pain relief options. There are many options to choose from, some of which have been used for centuries.
Exercise
Understandably, people living with chronic pain are less likely to wait to exercise, instead opting for rest to get pain relief. Doing so comes with several issues, such as worsening pain, muscle weakness, stiffness, and sleep difficulties.
Exercise helps improve blood flow to the affected areas to relieve pain. It also leads to the production of endorphins that make you feel much better.
You should talk to your doctor before exercising if you have chronic pain so they can ensure the exercises you select do not cause further damage. However, exercises like swimming, taking walks, joining a dance class and doing yoga or Pilates are generally safe.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest pain relief options that originated in China. Although it is still considered alternative medicine, it has been incorporated into modern medicine and is primarily used to treat migraines and chronic pain. While it can be used on its own, it is often used alongside other conventional treatments for complete relief.
In traditional Chinese medicine, it is thought to rebalance the flow of life force or energy known as qi. However, modern medical practitioners say that stimulating connective tissues, muscles, and nerves when getting acupuncture in Bristol encourages the body to release endorphins that improve the body’s pain relief response.
You can get acupuncture in Bristol for pain management in the shoulders, arms, hips, legs, neck and back. Acupuncture can also provide relief in people with arthritis, spinal stenosis, sciatica, and herniated disc.
Therapeutic Massages
Messages used to be seen as indulgences for a select few. However, therapeutic massages have become more popular as people have realised their benefits, and those with chronic pain have started getting them for pain relief.
Massages ease pain by relieving tension in muscles and joints, increasing blood flow to the target areas, and distracting you from your pain. They can also help alleviate stress that can make chronic pain worse.
Heat Therapy
Hot water bottles and heat pads can help with pain relief, with many people using them when they have a flare-up. Applying heat to an area eases stiffness, reduces pain, and increases muscle circulation and relaxation.
If you use heat therapy for pain relief, ensure the water is less than 40 degrees Celsius, never go to sleep while using a hot water bottle or heat pad, and wrap it in a towel or cover to protect the skin.
While you can use prescription medication for long-term pain, this is not always the best option. Medications have side effects if used for a long time, and there is always the chance of developing an addiction. Instead, consider alternatives that provide pain relief without additional issues.
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