Natural Pain Relief

Pain is a signal from your body telling you there’s a larger problem at hand.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can actually be harmful. NSAIDs can damage your gut bacteria and lining as well as increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Using natural ways to alleviate pain in between visits to our office will provide a much-needed break from the pain. Here are some natural things you can do to easeyour pain.

Listen to music

One of the easiest ways to alleviate pain is to grab your headphones. Multiple studies show that music has the ability to decrease the symptom of pain.

In one study, subjects with fibromyalgia syndrome listened to music for 14 days, noting their pain levels six times per day. At the conclusion of the study, researches found that perceived pain levels had dramatically decreased.

Listen to music that makes you happy. Classical and sounds of nature are also great options and are available for free on YouTube and Spotify.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Found naturally in flax seeds, wild-caught salmon, and coconut oil, omega-3 fatty acids act as an anti-inflammatory. Studies show that eating more omega-3 fatty acids or using a supplement can reduce pain and inflammation in the body, especially when it’s related to arthritis. See our inflammation blog for more information.

Use Tumeric Root in Cooking

Curcumin is the bioactive compound in turmeric root that make it one of the safest anti-inflammatories you can take. Like ginger, studies have shown that turmeric rootmay have pain-reducing power equal to that of NSAIDs medications.

Get a Pet or Rent One

Think it’s a coincidence that your body lights up and suddenly feels better when a cute dog starts walking towards you with its tail wagging? Studies show that having a pet, cat, or dog can help reduce pain, depression, and anxiety. If you don’t have a pet you can rent one through the website walkzee.com. Or volunteer at Chicago’s Anti-cruelty Society.

Try a Yoga Class

Yoga has become one of the most popular fitness trends and with good reason: it’s been shown to increase muscle strength, flexibility, and reduce pain. Studies show that practicing yoga can help to alleviate pain, especially prior injuries. There are lots of instructional yoga videos on YouTube or you can sign up for a yoga class at Ravenswood Chiropractic and Wellness Center.

Hypnosis

Still think that hypnosis is for magicians? Think again. Professional hypnosis has been found in several studies to be an effective way to naturally alleviate pain. Those with chronic pain have reported the greatest results from hypnosis. Ask us fora referral – it’s a covered benefit under many insurance plans.

Deep Relaxing Sleep

Want a way to reduce pain without having to spend a dime? Get on a healthy sleep schedule. You should be aiming for 7 to 9 hours each night. Studies show healthy, natural sleep – not medication-induced – can provide an anti-inflammatory effect in the body, helping to reduce pain.

Pray or Meditate

Whether you go to church or prefer meditation, your spiritual beliefs can help you alleviate pain. Studies show that daily prayer can help with pain management. The same is true with daily meditation. Focusing your breathing with eyes closed in a comfortable position has been shown to ease the pain.

Anti-inflammatory Diet

Focusing on healthy foods that naturally reduce inflammation in the body has been shown to be a great way to reduce pain and support long-term health. Healthy fat foods such as nuts, seeds, and fish are great examples of anti-inflammatory foods along with natural fruits and vegetables.

Regular Light Exercise

Getting your body up and moving is a great way to significantly ease pain. Focus on starting small with walking and light aerobic exercise at least three times per week. Be sure to include a stretching routine before and after your workout.

Hot and Cold Pack Application

After exercising, you can use heat and cold to help reduce inflammation and pain, especially in the lower back. Switch between a cold pack for 10 to 15 minutes then a hot pack for the same amount of time. Do this as needed.