Pain Management
As many as 70 percent are prescribed at least one medication. The phrase “pill culture” has been coined to describe this epidemic.
Managing pain can be a difficult decision. Most medications have dangerous side effects that might not always be fully disclosed. There is also a risk of developing a tolerance and addiction to these substances. However, there are other options for pain management. Many are opting for natural ways to manage their pain.
Many of these options are quite effective for most people, whether in conjunction with their current medication regimen or independently. Keep in mind the importance of consulting with your physician before discontinuing any medication.
Massage
Massage therapy is an effective natural pain management technique. It has been used for thousands of years, and there is currently around 80 massage therapy styles. Patients suffering from osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, tension headaches, neck or back pain will find a massage to be extremely beneficial to their conditions. Massages provide a deeper benefit in pain management apart from giving you pleasure.
Massage therapy can boost the levels of serotonin and endorphins in the body. Elevated levels of these chemicals reduce the feeling of pain and help to regulate mood. These therapies also have proven to be of special help to those who have had recent surgeries. Anxiety and stress are major issues for patients after surgery; massage can assist in controlling these emotions to make the patients feel better.
Most importantly, pain can also be reduced rather significantly as a result of massage therapy. It can be used to achieve relief from symptoms, to heal injuries, to help with certain health conditions, and promote overall wellness.
Meditation
Meditation is another method that has a lengthy history. Much like massage, meditation has been practiced for thousands of years. It can be extremely useful in reducing chronic pain and symptom management. Many studies have been performed to find the relation between managing pain and meditation. The studies have been widely successful in determining that patients can manage their pain better if they receive training in meditation.
One of the great aspects of meditation is that almost everyone can do it. Even simple breathing exercises can be an excellent way to start meditation for beginners. To make the breathing exercise successful, it is important that you sit in a comfortable stance. At the same time, you should relax while inhaling and exhaling. By repeating the simple steps continuously, it will be easier to achieve a state of meditation. Studies show that it may even rewire your brain for happiness and other cognitive benefits.
Yoga
Yoga has become quite popular, and it is well known for its pain management and stress relief benefits. Restorative yoga can provide relief from chronic pain, and can increase muscular flexibility and strength. Apart from lower back pain, yoga can be used to find relief from the pain of migraines and arthritis, and many other chronic conditions. According to research, patients have also reported a marked decrease in symptoms of depression.
Yoga can promote relaxation, and make the person feel better overall by improving their mental outlook on life. The mind-body benefits of practicing yoga have been scientifically proven and backed by science in numerous studies.
Opting for natural methods instead of rushing for your medicine cabinet for pain management can have a positive impact on your health. Depending on the level, severity, and cause of the pain, these methods can be beneficial in conjunction with your current medication regimen.