Persistent pain, either sudden or chronic, is a warning sign that something is wrong. Decoding the body’s signals can be baffling, and people usually opt for over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. These medications can mask the pain for a short time, but it is likely to return, often more intense than before. As chilling weather approaches, it’s a good time to rethink our reliance on OTC pain medications.
A massive number of people turn to OTC pain medications like aspirin and ibuprofen for relief from headaches, cramps and muscle aches. Those routinely turning to OTC pain medications should exercise caution, though. This is because these drugs carry the risk of liver toxicity and intestinal injury with bleeding. A more comprehensive approach is to deal with the root causes of pain: chronic inflammation, dehydration and circulation issues.
Non-Drug Pain Relief
There are many non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief. Though their effects might not be immediate, they work by soothing nerves, reducing inflammation, hydrating tissues, improving joint mobility, alleviating tension, and promoting relaxation. Addressing the root causes of pain tends to support overall health, immunity and vitality.
Manual therapies like acupuncture, acupressure and craniosacral therapy can help realign the musculoskeletal system, ensuring better bodily balance and energy flow. Physical therapy prescribed by a trained specialist can improve flexibility and lessen the discomfort of post-acute or chronic injury. Another approach is to focus on a pain-free body site away from the painful area — massaging and applying pressure here can help the ache dissipate.
Diet and Supplements
For chronic pain, choose an anti-inflammatory diet that eliminates sugar, gluten, alcohol, refined carbohydrates, trans-fats, rancid oils, and processed foods. Instead, focus on low-glycemic foods, fresh, green and cruciferous vegetables, lean proteins, healthy raw fats and oils, and raw nuts and seeds. Consider adding cold-water fish, coconut oil, flax oil, olive oil, and walnut to your diet. These oils can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and lubricate joints and tissues.
Natural Remedies
Proteolytic enzymes, available as supplements, improve protein digestion. Poor digestion can lead to fibrin excess, causing pain and a decrease in organ function. Taking proteolytic enzyme supplements on an empty stomach can help break up excess fibrin and reduce inflammation, potentially rectifying joint pain, musculoskeletal pain and old injuries.
Magnesium can help ease muscle pain, cramps and stiffness, while selenium and zinc are shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Topically, the Arnica flower is a tried-and-true treatment for muscle strains, injuries and chronic pain, while microdoses of Arnica can be taken orally. Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is known to improve circulation. It is used as a traditional remedy for numerous health issues, from immunity and detoxification to digestive support.
Modified citrus pectin is quickly gaining attention as a promising natural remedy. In vivo studies show that it significantly reduces the damaging process of inflammatory fibrosis associated with arthritis, joint pain, heart disease and liver cirrhosis. It also expels heavy metals, environmental toxins and radioactive particles from the body. Considering its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying potential, modified citrus pectin could be a game-changer in managing multiple health concerns.
Hydration and Good Habits
Finally, a critical habit for managing pain is proper hydration. Drinking at least eight glasses of filtered water daily reduces inflammation, increases circulation and flushes out inflammatory proteins and other metabolic wastes that intensify pain. Yoga and other mind-body practices can also help relax the pain response, reduce inflammation and drive circulation to affected areas.
Pain is the body’s main defense mechanism to alert us of a problem, so it’s essential to find suitable non-pharmacological remedies. Natural, holistic approaches help restore balance and promote overall health, offering true relief.
