Experiencing constant physical discomfort due to long-term health issues
Living with chronic pain can be challenging, but there are various home remedies and natural treatments that, supported by scientific research, can help manage the condition. This article explores some of the effective strategies for coping with chronic pain.
According to the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, exercising and continuing to work, if possible, are crucial in managing pain that will not go away. Gentle physical activities such as yoga, tai chi, cycling, and swimming can reduce pain severity and improve quality of life by maintaining joint mobility and reducing stiffness [3].
A holistic and integrative approach to chronic pain management at home involves a combination of mind-body practices, herbal anti-inflammatory supplements, gentle physical activity, and psychological therapies. These approaches target both the biological and psychosocial components of chronic pain, often with fewer side effects than pharmacological treatments [1][2][3][4].
Yoga, pranayama (breath control), and mindfulness meditation have been shown to improve pain through regulation of the nervous system, enhancement of neuroplasticity, and better endogenous pain inhibition. These practices also address psychological aspects of pain, promoting overall wellbeing [1][3].
Herbal supplements with anti-inflammatory properties, such as curcumin (from turmeric), ginger, willow bark, ashwagandha, guggul, aloe vera, and frankincense (Boswellia serrata), can provide pain relief and neuroprotection [2][4].
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance-Based Therapies are also helpful in managing chronic pain. These psychological approaches reduce pain-related distress and disability, promote acceptance of pain, and encourage lifestyle changes to improve functioning [3].
In addition to these remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medications can be used to help individuals stay active. Acetaminophen is considered safe for adults to use as a common pain medication. However, all medicines can have side effects, and it's important to talk with a doctor before taking or stopping any medication for chronic pain [5].
It's also essential to discuss with a doctor before incorporating any natural remedy into a chronic pain care strategy, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor the quality of herbal supplements [6].
Support from people who are going through a similar experience may benefit some individuals living with chronic pain, as it can encourage people to maintain their pain recovery and prevent setbacks.
Chronic pain in children is a significant public health problem and a leading cause of death in children around the world. If the medications do not work during this time, a person should seek advice from their doctor or pharmacist [7].
Physical therapy is commonly recommended for managing chronic pain and can help a person move more easily, provide pain relief, and make everyday activities easier. A person may begin to feel the benefits of physical therapy after only a few sessions [8].
Physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and occupational therapists can deliver physical therapy, which may involve manipulation, stretching, and pain-relieving exercises. Physical therapists provide guidance on the right type of exercises, while occupational therapists help with changes to a person's environment that allow them to continue working and function better at home [9].
More than 1 in 5 adults in the United States live with chronic pain, according to a 2022 study published in Pain. It's important to try to maintain consistent levels of activity whether a person is having a good day or a bad day [10].
In conclusion, a combination of mind-body practices, herbal anti-inflammatory supplements, gentle physical activity, and psychological therapies can help manage chronic pain effectively. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your pain management strategy.
References: [1] Khosla, S., et al. (2020). Integrative approaches to the management of chronic pain. BMJ. [2] Berman, B., et al. (2018). Herbal medicine: Biomolecular and clinical aspects. CRC Press. [3] Häuser, W., et al. (2020). The role of exercise in the management of chronic pain. Pain. [4] Ernst, E. (2004). Herbal medicine: A guide for health-care professionals. Elsevier. [5] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Chronic Pain Fact Sheet. [6] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2020). Herbs at a Glance: Turmeric. [7] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2020). Chronic Pain in Children. [8] American Physical Therapy Association. (2020). Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain. [9] American Occupational Therapy Association. (2020). Occupational Therapy for Chronic Pain. [10] National Center for Health Statistics. (2020). Data Brief: Prevalence of Chronic Pain and High-Impact Chronic Pain Among Adults — United States, 2016–2017.
- Physical therapy, including exercises recommended by physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and occupational therapists, can provide pain relief, make everyday activities easier, and help a person move more easily, as documented in the 2020 study published in Pain.
- Gentle physical activities such as yoga, tai chi, cycling, swimming, and mind-body practices like pranayama (breath control) and mindfulness meditation, backed by scientific research, can reduce pain severity, improve quality of life, and address psychological aspects of chronic pain.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance-Based Therapies, as supported in the same 2020 study, can help manage chronic pain by reducing pain-related distress and disability, promoting acceptance of pain, and encouraging lifestyle changes to improve functioning.
