Around 3 in 10 people in the US live with chronic pain. Chronic pain greatly interferes with a person’s life and can even cause other problems such as anxiety and depression. It’s always advisable to seek medical help for the cause of the pain to be identified so that you can be treated. However, sometimes, this is not possible. If you are in such a situation, the best thing you can do is look for remedies to ease the pain. Read on to learn some of the remedies that can help you get relief.
1. Use Cannabis Products
Cannabis products, such as the double dream strain and CBD oil, are good at easing both mild and chronic pain. Some of these products also relax the joints, reducing tension. Cannabis products have been proven effective in easing pain caused by conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, herniated discs, infections, cancer, among other conditions. However, make sure you talk to your doctor before taking these products. Remember to verify the legal status of cannabis in your area, as many states have their own rules regarding cannabis use. For example, in Missouri, residents with a qualified condition can legally purchase marijuana-derived cannabis products with a certified medical marijuana card recommended by their doctor.
2. Try To Exercise
When you have chronic pain, exercising can become a challenge. However, lack of inactivity can worsen your pain. Try as much as you can to move around, even if it’s just for a few minutes every day. Exercise helps the body release endorphins, which boost mood and ease pain. Some of the exercises you can try include swimming, yoga, rowing, biking, and walking.
3. Go For Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is also effective at easing chronic pain. It involves techniques aimed at strengthening and stretching the muscles and joints. It helps in relieving pain, making movement and daily tasks easier. Physical therapy is performed by physical therapists or chiropractors. They also guide you on safe exercises you can do at home. You will be required to be attending sessions regularly for better results.
4. Use Heat and Ice Therapy
Heat and ice therapy can also help you get some relief from pain. Heat dilates the blood vessels increases blood flow making the muscles and joints in the affected area relax. On the other hand, Ice reduces swelling by reducing blood flow and can also numb the painful area, providing some relief from pain.
5. Take Time to Relax
When you have chronic pain, you should take some time off to relax if you are always active. Doing a lot of physical activities can make you get tired, making the pain symptoms worse. Even when exercising, don’t overstretch yourself; a few minutes are enough. Getting regular massages is one of the best ways to unwind and help your body relax. If you are working, take regular breaks to give your body time to rest.
6. Use Medications
You can use both prescription and over-the-counter drugs to ease your pain. If over-the-counter drugs seem not to provide relief, your doctor can prescribe strong painkillers, depending on which condition is causing you pain. However, taking painkillers for chronic pain may not be a long-lasting solution since some of them cause adverse side effects when taken for too long. Your doctor will guide you on the drugs you should take and how long you should take them.
7. Check On Your Diet
Taking a balanced diet contributes to your general well-being. When you have chronic pain, your doctor may advise you not to take certain foods that may cause inflammation. They may also suggest that you focus on taking foods with anti-inflammatory agents such as legumes, whole grains, certain fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Ensure you follow your doctor’s advice.
Chronic pain can greatly interfere with your life. You can ease the pain by practicing some of the tips mentioned above. They will help you get relief and improve your coping strategies. You can use some of these methods without any help, while others, such as physical therapy, require assistance from health providers.