If you are suffering from a chronic illness or chronic pain, it means that you have to be under constant medications. While pain medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen work great for some people, long term use can lead to unwanted side effects, not to mention the addiction. Most people are trying to avoid the effects associated with long-term drug use and are, therefore, looking for a natural approach while dealing with pain.
One of the best things about most natural pain-relieving techniques is that they do not deal with the symptoms like most pharmaceutical drugs do. Instead, they focus on the source of the pain.
In this post, we will share with you some of the natural ways that you can use to deal with your pain issues for good.
1. CBD Oil for Pain
The main reason why CBD has become so popular is its ability to reduce or treat chronic pain. But how does it really achieve this?
Your body is made up of a specialized system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The system’s primary function is to regulate vital body functions such as appetite, sleep, pain, and immune system response.
The human body produces its own endocannabinoids which then bind to the cannabinoid receptors located in the body’s nervous system.
According to studies, CBD may help treat chronic pain by;
- Reducing inflammation.
- Interacting with neurotransmitters and
- Impacting endocannabinoid receptors.
Now, you may be asking: How do you get the best CBD oil for pain? Generally, you have to be living in a country or state where CBD products are legal. Luckily, following the 2018 hemp bill in the US, hemp-based CBD products are legal in all 50 states.
After confirming that CBD is legal in your place, you can now move on to other considerations such as the reputation of the vendor in question, CBD %, certificates of analysis, extraction methods as well as your preferred consumption method.
2. Acupuncture
This is another excellent way of dealing with pain naturally.
Acupuncture relies on a very simple principle; enhancing the flow of energy or qi (pronounced as “chee’’ throughout the human body.
According to traditional Chinese, qi is thought to flow through the human body along specific paths. When the energy flow is in balance, then we experience less pain and are in generally good health.
However, blockages may occur, interfering with the flow of energy in the human body. Such obstructions may lead to inflammation and pain. This is where acupuncture comes in to save the day!. Acupuncture relies on the use of tiny needles to remove the blockages. This allows the energy or qi to flow normally throughout your body. Of course, the real process is a bit complex and interesting, but that is a general idea.
3. Exercise
Exercise is the last thing you want to hear, especially when in pain. However, it is essential to note that most of the chronic conditions and pain are caused by poor lifestyles.
Incorporating exercise into your life helps boost not only the blood flow but also the energy flow in your body.
When we do not exercise or move regularly, our muscles and joints may become stiff, hence leading to the regular or constant pain.
POINT TO NOTE: If you have never worked out or exercised before and are just starting out, you need to be careful not to overdo it. This is because too much exertion or pressure may lead to inflammation and pain. Strenuous exercises may also lead to oxidative stress, hence lowering vibrational energy.
Best approach? Start with easy and less strenuous exercises and gradually grow in the game.
4. Yoga
Yoga, which is a physical meditation practice, is another natural pain remedy.
Yoga is able to provide both stretching and physical therapy, which are the main ‘ingredients’ used in managing back pain.
The practice involves self-care, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. As a result, yoga may also help with pain related to anxiety and stress.
According to NCCIH, although yoga can help with back pain, there is no evidence to show that it can help with other forms of pain such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and headache.
5. Massage Therapy
We can never talk about natural pain-relieving remedies and fail to mention massage therapy.
According to a 2009 Spine publication, 13 clinical trials were reviewed on the effectiveness of massage in back pain treatment.
The review concluded that massage therapy might be a beneficial natural approach for people with subacute and chronic nonspecific low back pain.
One of the best things about massage therapy is that it may also help with depression/anxiety associated with chronic pain. It is also applied to pregnant women to help with low back pain.
6. Vitamin D
Research has established a close link between chronic pain and vitamin D deficiency.
In a study involving 200 people with knee osteoarthritis, it was discovered that those who received the required daily 400-800IU of vitamin D experienced improved symptoms and less pain than their counterparts who did not.
Experts think that vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium, which is a crucial mineral for bone repair and growth.
Regardless of your busy schedule, try and put aside at least 10 minutes a day and get some sun!
7. Good Sleeping Habits
Sleep is not only for kids as there is a very close relationship between poor sleeping practices and poor health.
If you can’t get the recommended 8 hours of sleep, make sure you sleep for at least 6 hours.
However, quality sleep is more than just sleeping for 8 hours. It also involves healthy sleeping patterns and practices. For instance, your body should get used to a regular sleep and wake routine.
Ensure that your bedroom is dark and quiet. Don’t bring phones and other electronics in the bedroom.
Most chronic conditions are as a result of worry, stress, and anxiety. By getting enough sleep, you are able to keep your worries out of your mind for at least a few hours!
Other natural pain remedies include meditation and healthy eating habits to name a few.