Two million Americans have a substance abuse problem involving prescription pain killers (more than heroin). According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, 20,101 overdose deaths in 2015 could be attributed to prescription pain killers.
Chronic pain can be debilitating, and while reaching for painkillers might be your first reaction, there are safer and more effective natural approaches.
Let’s review them below.
1. Herbs and Spices
There is a vast selection of herbs and spices with natural analgesic effects, including willow bark, cloves, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
Willow bark has anti-inflammatory properties and is known to help with lower back pain, osteoarthritis, inflammatory conditions and headaches. The bark of the white willow contains a chemical called salicin, which is similar to aspirin, though its effects are felt slower and last longer. Willow bark can be brewed, or can be consumed as a liquid supplement or capsule. However, children under the age of 18 should not take willow bark.
Cloves come in powder or capsule form, and contain eugenol; a natural pain reliever that can soothe headaches, toothaches, and even arthritic inflammation. If you are taking blood thinning medication, consult your doctor before you use clove products.
Turmeric, which contains an antioxidant called curcumin, protects your cells and tissues from free radicals, and has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in pain relief.
2. Cold and Heat
When applied correctly, cold and heat can have profound effects on pain.
Apply a cold pack or ice directly over your newly strained or injured muscles for a reduction in inflammation, swelling, and bleeding of your tissues. However, use heat packs or hot water bottles for sore joints and chronic pain, as heat relaxes sore and taut muscles while boosting blood circulation.
3. BioMat Therapy
BioMat Therapy is a holistic medical approach that uses NASA technology, Eastern medicine, FAR-Infrared light, Amethyst Crystals, and Negative Ions to strengthen your organs and body systems.
This calming therapy offers a wide range of remarkable health benefits, including relief from pain and joint stiffness, as well as decreased inflammation. Learn more about Biomat therapy and its benefits here.
Clients at Victoria Bailey Thermography Health and Wellness have the option to enjoy BioMat Therapy during their Assisted Lymphatic Therapy sessions.
4. Assisted Lymphatic Therapy
Assisted Lymphatic Therapy (or ALT) is a non-invasive way to break up lymphatic congestion within your body. It feels like a light-tough massage, but actually, two small handheld wands are moved across your body in the direction of lymphatic flow. Light, vibration and frequencies break up congestion so that your body can flush out toxins, pathogens, cell waste as it was designed to do.
The benefits of ALT include detoxifying tissues, reducing inflammation and chronic joint & muscle pain, among many others. You can read more on our website about what causes lymphatic congestion and what can happen as a result of an impaired lymphatic system.
5. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific acupuncture points in your body. This therapeutic treatment aims to balance the flow of energy in your body known as your “qi” (or ch’i). This stimulates several biological functions (e.g. release of opioid peptides) which offer relief from migraines, chronic pain, low back pain, and osteoarthritis to name a few.
6. Essential Oils
There are plenty of essential oils with well-known pain relief qualities, including:
-
Peppermint and lavender oils for headaches and muscle pain
-
Marjoram oil for aches and muscle cramps
-
Evening primrose oil for menstrual pain
-
Vetiver oil for muscle fatigue, stiff joints, arthritis, and menstrual cramps
-
Arnica oil for carpal tunnel pain, arthritic flare ups, inflammation, bruises, and insect bites
Different natural treatments work best for different types of pain and it is important to consult with your primary physician about any pain management steps you might be taking.
If you are struggling with chronic pain, you can experience the deep healing and pain relief of Assisted Lymphatic Therapy and BioMat Therapy, all in a one-hour session. Don’t hesitate to book a session with us; Call our office at 615-934-3121 or book online today!
