If you are currently in pain, you are probably looking for anything you can do to manage and minimize that pain and start feeling better. The last thing you want is for your pain to take over your life and leave you feeling like you’re stuck and unable to live to the full because of the hurt you feel when you try to participate in everyday activities, right?
The thing is, the opioids that are so often prescribed to relieve pain have their own dangers and their own life-limiting side effects, which can make living a full and normal life difficult, too. That is why more and more people are looking to take the holistic approach to pain management, and there is no reason why, if your doctor agrees, you cannot do the same. Here are some of the most effective places to start.
Acupuncture
A lot of people think acupuncture is pure hokum, but you know what? Numerous scientific studies have shown that it does have an effect and can help many people lower their pain levels when they have regular sessions. It’s particularly useful for people with back pain, migraines and cancer-related pains, but whatever your pain, it has to be worth a try.
Cannabis and CBD
If you live in a state where you can get a medical card that allows you to access legal cannabis for your pain condition, then it is most definitely worth doing so, because many people find that their pain levels are significantly reduced when using cannabis, especially those people dealing with neuropathic pain and back pain, cancer-related pain and joint pains.
If you do not have access to cannabis, then some people also find CBD (a compound found in cannabis which is completely legal in isolation) is also helpful for managing their pain, although the effect sa re likely to be more subtle than with cannabis.
Massage Therapy
Not only is it extremely relaxing, but many people find that massage therapy is really good at helping them manage joint and muscle pains, sports injuries, back pain, and neck and shoulder pain. It can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and it releases chemicals that fight pain and make you feel a greater sense of well-being. Not bad, right?
Meditation
Meditation, and mindfulness-based practices in particular, might not be something you think can help you with your pain, but you know what? Although you feel pain physically, it does have a mental component too, and if you can use meditation techniques to focus on your breathing and coming to terms with your pain, it can have a surprising impact on how high your pain levels are, lowering them more than you might think possible.
You should always consult your doctor before you try anything new for your pain, but if you want to get off the pharmaceutical train, or at least reduce your use of them, then try some of these holistic approaches and you might well be surprised.
Add Your Comment