Note: This blog post is a sponsored conversation written by Lynn Smythe, the Founder and Chief Blogger for The Creative Cottage lifestyle blog. The opinions, thoughts, ideas and text are all mine.
Prescribed painkillers are often the best way to relieve pain, but there could be times when you want a break from prescription and over the counter medications. In these instances, it could be worth trying other forms of pain relief. Here are several alternative therapies to fight pain.
Take a Hot Bath
Doctors regularly recommend hot baths as a form of pain relief for everything from back pain to labour pain. This is because the buoyancy and heat of the water can help to relax muscles and ease inflammation, as well as providing the body with a pain-fighting endorphin rush. Many people claim that using Epsom salts also brings relief.
Get a Massage
A massage could be another alternative way of relieving pain – especially if you’re dealing with muscular pain. Professional massages can help to relax muscles, relieve irritated nerves and ease inflammation. Specific types of massage may be better suited to certain types of pain, such as a sports massage for a sports injury.
Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine therapy that involves inserting tiny needles into pressure points. Many people find that acupuncture is an effective form of pain relief. This treatment modality can be used to treat all kinds of pain from a stiff neck to menstrual pain. You should always seek out a professional acupuncture therapist when getting this treatment.
Try Turmeric and Other Spices
Turmeric is a spice that happens to be a member of the ginger family. It has long been heralded for its pain-fighting properties. Since it is a strong anti-inflammatory and an anti-oxidant, this spice can be used to treat all kinds of pain. There are lots of ways to consume turmeric but the most common is as a powder mixed into hot water. Turmeric is commonly used in curries, but it can also be combined into other food dishes including omelettes and stews. Some coffee bars have even started selling turmeric lattes.
Try Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the ingredient within chili peppers that gives them their hotness. When applied to an area of skin as a cream, capsaicin can help to reduce pain. It does this by playing an important role in transmitting pain signals. Whilst generally harmless, these creams can cause skin irritation with some people. Also, this stuff is hot so take care not to rub your eyes, mouth or nose after using it as it could burn.
Try CBD Oil
CBD, aka cannabidiol, is a chemical extracted from cannabis that has been observed as being effective against pain. In its raw form, GoGreen Hemp Premium CBD Tinctures carries all the calming properties but none of the actual high due to the lack of THC. The likes of these CBD Pure oils can be taken orally. There are a number of other CBD products on the market.
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Walking, Cycling and Other Exercise
Staying active is also essential for fighting pain. Exercise can help to loosen up joints and muscles and it can also provide an endorphin rush to help numb pain. Obviously, you do need to be careful of the type of exercise you do as certain activities could make certain types of pain worse. Low impact exercises such as swimming, yoga and walking are usually a safe go-to option.
Catch Up on Your Sleep
Your body is better at fighting pain when it is well rested. This means getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night. The quality of your sleep is also important – if you keep waking up because of pain, consider whether you can change your bedding to help put an end to this.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Laughter can be the best medicine. When we laugh, our body is filled with endorphins which can help to numb pain. Try to partake more in activities that make you laugh, whether it’s socializing with friends or watching your favorite comedy movies and TV shows.
So, there you go – the best alternative therapies to fight pain.
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