8 ways of naturally managing chronic pain

If you suffer from chronic pain, you are not alone. As many as 100 million Americans are currently dealing with some form of chronic pain making it one of the most frustrating and debilitating conditions anyone can experience. Chronic pain can develop for many reasons – from an injury or illness, or can exist without an identifiable cause. The pain can last for weeks, months and even years creating emotional responses such as fear and anxiety.

Many wonder why chronic pain cannot be better managed.  Healthcare professionals understand that chronic pain is a complex issue and is influenced by how the brain processes pain signals. When a person states they are experiencing pain, it is subjective and can only be defined by the person who has it. But the human brain can be trained to manage and redefine those pain sensations.

First, anyone who is experiencing chronic pain should talk with their healthcare provider.  Pain medication is available but often with a price of possible addiction and side effects. However, there are more natural ways to deal with pain that could be of significant help.  Before beginning any of these pain management techniques, discuss with your doctor for their advice.

1. Acupuncture

Used to treat various medical concerns, acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that uses fine needles for therapeutic purposes. The thin needles are inserted through your skin at specific points on your body. Researchers don’t fully understand how acupuncture works. One theory is that is affects the chemicals in the body that lessen pain and control blood flow.

2. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can make chronic pain worse. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water.  Avoid caffeinated drinks, like coffee and tea, as well as alcohol since these beverages will actually make you more dehydrated.

3. Deep breathing exercises

Find a comfortable place to sit and imagine a peaceful place. Then take one normal breath followed by a slow, deep breath through your nose, letting your chest and stomach area expand as much as possible. Then breathe out slowly through your mouth or nose. Follow this breathing pattern for several minutes. Some studies suggest that breathing exercises may have a positive effect on lower back pain.

4. Choose nutritious foods

What you eat can help or hurt your attempts to manage chronic pain. Focus on foods that reduce inflammation, such as leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, asparagus, cherries, cranberries, and soy products.

5. Massage

Massage therapy is more than just an indulgence. It involves the treatment of soft tissues and muscles that may help relieve musculoskeletal-related pain. Researchers are currently studying the effects of massage theory in people with neck, hand, and knee pain. Earlier studies have shown beneficial effects in those with chronic hand and neck pain. Types of massage therapy include Swedish massage, sports massage, and trigger point massage.

6.  Practice yoga or tai chi

Yoga and tai chi both address the physical and mental aspects of chronic pain. The core benefits of yoga are increased strength and flexibility. It teaches you to systematically relax your muscles which are helpful when chronic pain causes you to tense up.

Tai chi is a slow-moving, low-impact meditative exercise that originated in China. It involves breathing deeply as you move slowly, gently, and with awareness. Research suggests that practicing tai chi may help relieve chronic pain in people with osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and osteoporosis.

7.  Use imagery

Your mind is a powerful tool. After warming up with deep breathing, using your mind and imagination can help you control and manage your pain. For instance, through a technique called “mental anesthesia,” a chronic pain sufferer will imagine a shot of anesthetic being injected into the area of their body in pain. This has been proven to lessen the sensation of pain naturally without any medication.

8. Involve a pain management team

Chronic pain requires your management but it doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Anyone with chronic pain needs the help of a pain management team to find effective relief. This team will include your primary doctor, and possibly a neurologist, a physical therapist, a psychologist, and other healthcare professionals dedicated to helping you find a solution to your chronic pain. It also requires you to be as optimistic as possible. Realize you do not have to travel on this journey alone and there are many well-trained health professionals who want to see you succeed in beating back chronic pain.