Many sports medicine professionals, as well as other medical professionals, continue to express their concern about the use and misuse of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including over-the-counter painkillers that contain acetaminophen. Consider the fact that the number one cause of liver failure in the United States is acetaminophen poisoning. Acetaminophen poisoning is the No. 1 cause of liver failure in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women use NSAIDs at higher doses and more often than men. In addition, over a period of 10 years, more women than ever visited the emergency room due to adverse painkiller reactions or even died of an overdose of prescription painkillers. Research has shown, for unknown reasons, that women are more prone to chronic pain and prescription painkillers. They also tend to be prescribed higher doses of these drugs, as well as use them longer.
Women have been using painkillers for more than just everyday aches and discomforts as they increase their involvement in sports and fitness. Researchers claim that athletes use NSAIDs prior to every competition or workout. However, studies show that these drugs can cause side effects that are more common in heavy users. NSAIDs start damaging the intestines an hour after ingestion. They cause changes in a substance known as intestinal fatty acids binding protein (IFABP). It is through repeated NSAID usage that intestinal hemorrhages can occur.
Disrupting recovery efforts
A cool-down is essential after a hard workout. The body is a complex network of interconnected systems that are all affected to varying degrees by training. Rest and recovery give muscles, joints and the brain time to heal, while also allowing our nervous system to calm.
NSAIDs reduce the production of satellite cells in muscle. These cells are formed by resistance training, and they connect to existing muscle fibers to create new lean tissue. Lean muscle plays a crucial role in healing damaged muscle tissue and stimulating metabolism.
Michael Loes MD, the author of Healing Sports Injuries Natural states that 95 percent of sports-related injuries are minor traumas to soft tissues. (Think sprains or strains. Contusions and bruising). These injuries cause inflammation and pain. He explains how taking a drug such as ibuprofen activates prostaglandins which are pro-inflammatory chemicals. This can cause sub-acute swelling on top of normal discomfort lasting up to four weeks.
Mellisa St0ppler MD, PhD explains that recovery efforts can be made worse due to a “wind-up phenomena” where pain signals are amplified. Exercise makes muscle fibers and nerve fibers stronger, which increases their efficiency in transmitting signals to your brain. This can cause pain signals to be amplified even when the injury is slight. The pain is felt much more intensely, even if the injury does not worsen. Pain may now be considered “chronic”, and is not helpful in identifying an injury.
Recent research published in Nature Reviews neuroscience indicates that chronic pain can affect the brain’s anatomy and cause nerve damage, resulting in a negative feedback cycle that prevents brains from producing their own natural painkillers. Studies have shown that mind-body healing techniques such as acupuncture and meditation can reverse this mistake. A new report from Boston University found that yoga classes reduced pain, improved muscle and joint function, and decreased the need for pain medications.
Bottom line: if you only focus on pain relief before and after an exercise without a long-term healing approach, it can intensify pain signals that may, in some instances, be false alarms.
Unintentional over-prescription: A common trend
Jay S. Cohen MD says that nearly half of people who overdose accidentally on acetaminophen (the active ingredient in NSAIDs) do so unintentionally. It’s not surprising that people overdose on NSAIDs accidentally because they are given out as candy in hospitals and private clinics.
What’s more shocking? A study in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine revealed that when doctors prescribed acetaminophen-narcotic combination pain medications to patients, they didn’t warn the patients about other medications containing acetaminophen that they should reduce or discontinue.
Researchers refer to an “overdose staggered” when people accidentally overdose. This can lead to damage over time, such as liver failure and the need for liver transplants. This staggered buildup is caused by using acetaminophen products to treat ailments like toothaches, joint pain, back or neck problems, colds and flus.
There is a common misconception that NSAIDs should only be used by patients who already have heart disease. Even short-term use of most NSAIDs can increase the risk of death. Many doctors are already cautious when prescribing NSAIDs to relieve chronic pain, because they increase the risk for ulcers and serious bleeding within the stomach and gastrointestinal system. Researchers at Duke University Medical Center reported recently that NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and diclofenac or naproxen, can increase the risk of stroke in healthy people.
The role of NAC
Alcohol consumption and fasting, whether due to illness, eating disorders such as anorexia or malnutrition, increase the risk of liver damage after acetaminophen ingestion. Fasting lowers glutathione levels, the body’s most powerful and abundant internal antioxidant. Glutathione detoxifies acetaminophen in the liver and has been shown to be able to kill breast cancer cell lines.
N-acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is the key nutrient that produces glutathione. NAC is destroyed by NSAIDs, so people who have overdosed on these drugs are often given high doses of NAC in the emergency room. NSAIDs are often prescribed to treat severe pain after surgery or injury. However, NAC can be taken in conjunction with NSAIDs for a better balance.
Despite the efforts of forward-thinking doctors, the FDA has not included an insert that would alert NSAID users to the benefits NAC. NAC is available at local vitamin stores. Be sure to check the labels and select a trusted brand.
Natural Relief from Pain
When evaluating your treatment options, it is best to first identify the cause of your pain and then select the option which will promote healing.
Dr. Loes, during his research into sports injuries, discovered that adding enzymes to the post-workout formulas, such as bromelain (derived from pineapple) and papain (derived from papaya), accelerated muscle recovery, and reduced inflammation chemicals that cause swelling and pain. A recent study in the Journal of Strength Conditioning and Research showed that bromelain and Papain quickly restored muscle power after exercise.
When taken after exercising, they reverse the damage caused by exercise. It’s like watching little Pac-Men eat all kinds of chemicals that cause inflammation and pain. Sports medicine researchers, and even bodybuilders, recommend taking multiple enzymes before and after workouts.
Some of the other natural pain relievers are:
- Astaxanthin is a powerful anti-inflammatory which supports joint and muscular health
- Cetyl Myristoleate is an anti-inflammatory that lubricates joints. It is particularly effective in treating arthritis and other chronic conditions.
- Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that reduces swelling, inflammation and pain. It can also reduce the side effects caused by NSAIDs.
- Ginger is a herb that provides pain relief, as well as stomach-settling properties.
- Evening Primrose, Black Currant, and Borage oils are all fatty acid-rich oils that can reduce arthritis pain.
- Cayenne is the active compound in hot peppers that reduces pain by reducing the production of substance P. Substance P is a chemical component found on nerve cells which transmit pain signals to the mind.
- DLPA is a protein that neutralizes enzymes known to inhibit the release endorphins (also known as the body’s natural morphine).
- White Willow Bark contains salicylic acid, a painkiller compound, but does not cause gastrointestinal distress.
- Glucosamine sulfate is a combination of two supplements that can reduce the pain associated with arthritis and knee problems.
- Hyaluronic Acid Promotes joint comfort, health and repair.
- Omega-3 Fish Oils are fatty acids which can reduce pain. They are also nature’s most safe and effective anti-inflammatory.
The goal of fitness and bodybuilding is to lose body fat and gain strength. You should not confuse pain relief and muscle regeneration because it will keep you from reaching your next fitness level. It’s important that you know how to take NSAIDs in order to manage pain. You should also be aware of the amount and frequency you use other OTC products containing acetaminophen. Pain is a signal from the body that something is wrong. But using NSAIDs to prevent pain is not healthy, regardless of whether you are male or female or athletic.
Pain management Techniques
Even though they may not be the first thing that comes to mind when discussing pain relief, there are a few non-medical methods that can reduce it. Unfortunately, these protocols are often overlooked. Simple stress-reduction techniques such as acupuncture and hypnosis can provide relief. Aromatherapy, biofeedback, Epsom Salt baths, deep-tissue bodywork, cold and hot packs, massage therapy and magnet therapy are also helpful. Give yourself time to rest and recover. Between your workouts you should take a few days off and get plenty of rest. Dawn Marcus, MD, says that studies show that those who sleep only four hours per day will notice a significant drop in their pain threshold. Harris H. McIlwain MD, a pain management expert, says that lack of sleep depletes the brain chemical, serotonin. This increases sensitivity to painful stimuli and causes malaise, or a general feeling like you are sick.
The article When Pain Medicine and Exercise Collide first appeared on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are alternative medicine examples?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that does not fit the criteria of mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. Examples include meditation, hypnosis, yoga, aromatherapy, reflexology, flower essences, and many others.
Where can I find more information about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. Holistic medicine addresses all aspects of the patient’s health, including spiritual, mental, physical and emotional well-being.
Holistic medicine’s goal is to treat the whole person rather than just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.
Holistic medicine covers preventive measures like nutrition and exercise, as well treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.
There are many options for holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What is Alternative Medicine?
This is a holistic approach to healing that emphasizes prevention over treatment. It also encourages people to become informed consumers actively engaged in improving their health and well-being.
Alternative medicine refers any treatment or diagnosis that does not use allopathic (conventional), medical practices.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (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)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches
- How do you name complementary, alternative, or integrative health? NCCIH
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
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
How To
How to deal when your girlfriend trusts an alternative medicine.
There are many resources available online for anyone who is dealing with a loved person suffering from a mental illness. The internet isn’t able to provide much help for those who believe in alternative medicines.
It appears that there is a large divide between the two groups. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens when you meet someone who believes that there are alternative treatments to mental health problems?
Because you don’t know the right way to respond, you might feel confused or frustrated. What do you tell your partner if he says he would rather go to an acupuncturist than his doctor? Or when he says he’d rather have antidepressants than eat gluten-free.
Asking questions is important. Asking them early on could save a lot of heartaches later on.
So how can you ask difficult questions of him without offending? What if he claims he doesn’t believe doctors? What if he says he doesn’t trust doctors?
Or, what if she tells you that she believes antidepressants don’t work? Tell her that you don’t believe she’s right.
Here’s where things can get complicated. If you point out her error, it could cause you to upset her further.
Or, you can suggest she sees a psychiatrist. This could cause more problems than it solves. You might be angry with her for suggesting it. Perhaps she thinks you are trying her to control the rest of her life.
So what are you supposed to do?
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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: When Pain Medicine and Exercise Collide
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/pain/when-pain-medicine-and-exercise-collide/
Published Date: Sun, 28 May 2023 13:51:56 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are alternative medicine examples?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that does not fit the criteria of mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. Examples include meditation, hypnosis, yoga, aromatherapy, reflexology, flower essences, and many others.
Where can I find more information about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. Holistic medicine addresses all aspects of the patient’s health, including spiritual, mental, physical and emotional well-being.
Holistic medicine’s goal is to treat the whole person rather than just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.
Holistic medicine covers preventive measures like nutrition and exercise, as well treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.
There are many options for holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What is Alternative Medicine?
This is a holistic approach to healing that emphasizes prevention over treatment. It also encourages people to become informed consumers actively engaged in improving their health and well-being.
Alternative medicine refers any treatment or diagnosis that does not use allopathic (conventional), medical practices.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (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)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches
- How do you name complementary, alternative, or integrative health? NCCIH
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
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
How To
How to deal when your girlfriend trusts an alternative medicine.
There are many resources available online for anyone who is dealing with a loved person suffering from a mental illness. The internet isn’t able to provide much help for those who believe in alternative medicines.
It appears that there is a large divide between the two groups. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens when you meet someone who believes that there are alternative treatments to mental health problems?
Because you don’t know the right way to respond, you might feel confused or frustrated. What do you tell your partner if he says he would rather go to an acupuncturist than his doctor? Or when he says he’d rather have antidepressants than eat gluten-free.
Asking questions is important. Asking them early on could save a lot of heartaches later on.
So how can you ask difficult questions of him without offending? What if he claims he doesn’t believe doctors? What if he says he doesn’t trust doctors?
Or, what if she tells you that she believes antidepressants don’t work? Tell her that you don’t believe she’s right.
Here’s where things can get complicated. If you point out her error, it could cause you to upset her further.
Or, you can suggest she sees a psychiatrist. This could cause more problems than it solves. You might be angry with her for suggesting it. Perhaps she thinks you are trying her to control the rest of her life.
So what are you supposed to do?
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