Chronic pain affects more people than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined. According to the National Institute of Health, pain is one of the leading causes of disability, and it is a major contributor to health care costs. Chronic pain can last months or years and happens in all parts of the body. It interferes with daily life and can lead to depression and anxiety. Despite the profound impact chronic pain has on our communities and its toll on the healthcare system, there are still millions suffering from chronic pain every day.
Approximately 25% of adults in the United States experience chronic pain.
While there are dozens of pharmaceutical medications aimed at treating chronic pain, their harmful side effects make natural treatments like cryotherapy and CBD oil for pain much more appealing. If you are one of the thousands looking for natural, effective, and easy-to-use treatments for pain, here are five proven alternatives:
Cold Therapy
Cold and heat therapies may not seem as effective as pharmaceutical medications, but that is because most people do not know the difference between these two types of treatments and when to use which one. Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, consists of exposing the body to very low temperatures to reduce blood flow which can significantly minimize and prevent inflammation and swelling. Cold therapy can be applied in multiple ways including ice packs, frozen gel packs, ice baths, and coolant sprays.
Heat Treatment
A lot of people confuse heat and cold therapies or use the two interchangeably which is a big mistake. While cold treatments are perfect for reducing inflammation and swelling, heat therapies work best for muscle pain and stiffness. If you suffer from chronic back pain or a stiff neck try heating pads, steamed towels, or even saunas for a full body treatment.
Cannabidiol
Commonly known as CBD, this compound found in hemp is known for its anti-inflammatory properties which make it the perfect pain medication. Unlike other compounds found in hemp, CBD is non-psychoactive meaning its properties are purely medicinal. CBD comes in many dosages and forms including oils, smokables, and topicals. You can buy high-quality natural CBD oil for pain and smokable CBD products online.
Turmeric
Turmeric is widely used as a pain reliever thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a key chemical found in the plant. A common ingredient in Asian cuisine, Turmeric has been used as a medicinal supplement for centuries in the Indian subcontinent and the Far East.
Exercise
While the benefits of exercise are practically endless, incorporating an exercise regimen into your weekly routine can decrease the risk of diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. But did you know regular exercise can reduce pain? When we engage in physical activity, the body produces higher volumes of endorphins which are hormones that interact with brain receptors and increase our pain threshold. Participating in low-intensity exercises, such as walking or light swimming, for 30 minutes every day may help reduce your pain. Exercise can also be a stress reliever for some people, which is important to manage when you have chronic pain.
Other Natural Pain Relief Remedies
As pharmaceutical medications for pain become less affordable and the opioid epidemic worsens, more people are choosing to go the all natural way when it comes to treating their chronic pain. In addition to the alternatives listed above, natural pain relief remedies like fish oil, ginger, and valerian root have also become popular options among those suffering from chronic pain.
Currently, there is no cure for chronic pain, other than to identify and treat its cause. For example, treating arthritis can sometimes stop joint pain. Many people with chronic pain don’t know its cause and can’t find a cure. They use a combination of medications, therapies and lifestyle changes to lessen pain.
The post 5 Natural Remedies for Chronic Pain appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does complementary medicine refer to?
Complementary Medicine, also known as alternative medicine, refers to any medical treatment which is not part of mainstream medicine. This covers treatments like acupuncture, aromatherapy and chiropractic care, homeopathy or hypnosis as well massage therapy, naturopathy, reflexology and traditional Chinese medicine.
Complementary medicine is not meant to be used in place of conventional medicine, but instead as a complement. Sometimes they’re called “alternative”, or “integrative”, because they combine Western scientific methods along with other therapies that have proven to be effective in healing people.
What’s the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. These include homeopathy, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology as well as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda and naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.
Both forms of medicine can be used but are not recommended by many doctors due to lack of evidence or safety concerns.
There is no consensus among healthcare providers about the best approach to integrating CAM within patient care.
Many CAM methods are based on theories that have been developed over thousands of year. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.
Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture can relieve pain. Similar to chemotherapy, preliminary data suggest that acupuncture can reduce nausea or vomiting. A number of studies also suggest that acupuncture might improve symptoms like irritable and fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, migraines tension headaches, anxiety, and anxiety.
Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer’s disease.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
People are increasingly turning to CAM practitioners to find relief from common ailments.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
Is holistic healing legitimate?
Yes, and no. Yes. Numerous medicines have been found to be effective in treating various diseases. They won’t cure everyone. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” If it means taking into account all aspects of an individual’s health, then yes, but if it just means using natural remedies over chemical ones then no.
Some believe that holistic medicine is a newer form of medicine. This is simply not true. Although some healers in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome used natural remedies, they did so without scientific knowledge.
It wasn’t until after the Middle Ages that medical doctors began to study anatomy. In the 19th Century, almost all Western countries had public hospitals that could be used by trained doctors to provide medical care.
Conventional medicine has become the dominant form for healthcare. But, many people still prefer complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it works better than drugs.
People may feel more relaxed after having massage therapy than they do when taking tranquilizers. Some prefer to eat healthy food over taking prescription medication. Others, however, find regular exercise to be a great way to keep their bodies functioning at peak performance.
Is holistic medical safe?
Holistic Medicine isn’t as dangerous as it seems, but there are still risks when you use this treatment. The most common side effects include headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation, and insomnia. These risks must be understood by patients and balanced against the benefits of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Statistics
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Hospital Anxiety and Depression in Female Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
How To
What to look for in a qualified holistic doctor?
How do I find a good holistic physician?
Specialists are the best doctors. This is holistic medicine. This means that doctors should be able to treat their patients holistically. It is important for them to understand how to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. They must understand holistic health, and why you should see a holistic doctor.
A doctor must have a solid understanding of holistic health and complementary and alternate therapies (CAM). This includes acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy and yoga.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
It is also important to ask if the doctor is certified by professional organizations, such as the American Holistic Medical Association (NCBCTM) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). NBOHMCA certification is available in many areas, such as naturopathic, acupuncture or homeopathy, clinical nutritional, herbal medicine, aromatherapy and clinical nutrition.
Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If there isn’t one listed, you may be able to search online for a holistic doctor near you.
To confirm if holistic healthcare is offered, contact your local hospital.
Visit your local library to find books and resources related to holistic health.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: jbenson@innovisionhm.com
Title: 5 Natural Remedies for Chronic Pain
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/pain/5-natural-remedies-for-chronic-pain/
Published Date: Sun, 20 Aug 2023 20:06:51 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What does complementary medicine refer to?
Complementary Medicine, also known as alternative medicine, refers to any medical treatment which is not part of mainstream medicine. This covers treatments like acupuncture, aromatherapy and chiropractic care, homeopathy or hypnosis as well massage therapy, naturopathy, reflexology and traditional Chinese medicine.
Complementary medicine is not meant to be used in place of conventional medicine, but instead as a complement. Sometimes they’re called “alternative”, or “integrative”, because they combine Western scientific methods along with other therapies that have proven to be effective in healing people.
What’s the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. These include homeopathy, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology as well as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda and naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.
Both forms of medicine can be used but are not recommended by many doctors due to lack of evidence or safety concerns.
There is no consensus among healthcare providers about the best approach to integrating CAM within patient care.
Many CAM methods are based on theories that have been developed over thousands of year. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.
Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture can relieve pain. Similar to chemotherapy, preliminary data suggest that acupuncture can reduce nausea or vomiting. A number of studies also suggest that acupuncture might improve symptoms like irritable and fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, migraines tension headaches, anxiety, and anxiety.
Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer’s disease.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
People are increasingly turning to CAM practitioners to find relief from common ailments.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
Is holistic healing legitimate?
Yes, and no. Yes. Numerous medicines have been found to be effective in treating various diseases. They won’t cure everyone. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” If it means taking into account all aspects of an individual’s health, then yes, but if it just means using natural remedies over chemical ones then no.
Some believe that holistic medicine is a newer form of medicine. This is simply not true. Although some healers in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome used natural remedies, they did so without scientific knowledge.
It wasn’t until after the Middle Ages that medical doctors began to study anatomy. In the 19th Century, almost all Western countries had public hospitals that could be used by trained doctors to provide medical care.
Conventional medicine has become the dominant form for healthcare. But, many people still prefer complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it works better than drugs.
People may feel more relaxed after having massage therapy than they do when taking tranquilizers. Some prefer to eat healthy food over taking prescription medication. Others, however, find regular exercise to be a great way to keep their bodies functioning at peak performance.
Is holistic medical safe?
Holistic Medicine isn’t as dangerous as it seems, but there are still risks when you use this treatment. The most common side effects include headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation, and insomnia. These risks must be understood by patients and balanced against the benefits of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
Statistics
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Hospital Anxiety and Depression in Female Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
How To
What to look for in a qualified holistic doctor?
How do I find a good holistic physician?
Specialists are the best doctors. This is holistic medicine. This means that doctors should be able to treat their patients holistically. It is important for them to understand how to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. They must understand holistic health, and why you should see a holistic doctor.
A doctor must have a solid understanding of holistic health and complementary and alternate therapies (CAM). This includes acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy and yoga.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
It is also important to ask if the doctor is certified by professional organizations, such as the American Holistic Medical Association (NCBCTM) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). NBOHMCA certification is available in many areas, such as naturopathic, acupuncture or homeopathy, clinical nutritional, herbal medicine, aromatherapy and clinical nutrition.
Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If there isn’t one listed, you may be able to search online for a holistic doctor near you.
To confirm if holistic healthcare is offered, contact your local hospital.
Visit your local library to find books and resources related to holistic health.
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