What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you suffer from unbearable pain or inflammation? Probably reaching for the over-the-counter painkillers that you bought the other day. Unfortunately, that’s neither a solution nor a healthy choice because analgesics only offer temporary pain relief, and not a lifelong remedy. Painkillers will only alleviate your pain or discomfort for a while, but cannot get to the root of the problem. Fortunately, there are some alternative remedies to manage pain without pills. Here are three of the most effective ones:

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient technique of pain management. This Chinese practice uses small needles at specific points on a patient’s body to treat chronic pain. It’s useful in the treatment of a number of pain-related conditions such as lower back pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, headaches, menstrual cramps, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain and tennis elbow. Acupuncture may also be integrated with a complete pain management plan.

2. Mind and Body Therapies

Stress, anxiety and depression can add to your pain. This is where the importance of mind-body therapies comes into play. Mind and body therapies use a number of techniques such as medication, relaxation, biofeedback, hypnosis and guided imagery. These practices can boost the mind’s ability to influence the symptoms and functions of the human body. Biofeedback tells you how you can control your body’s response to pain while hypnosis helps you with deep relaxation to fight chronic pain.

3. Hot and Cold Therapies

Hot therapy improves blood circulation to areas of your body plagued with pain. Apply a heat wrap or heating pad to allow your sore muscles to relax. Hot baths are also recommended for effective pain management. Cold therapy will minimize blood flow to painful joints. Expect reduced pain and swelling, as nerves are unable to respond to the pain quickly. Apply a cold wrap or an icepack to get relief from joint pain.

Walk into one of our wellness centers and let us guide to through some of the effective ways to manage pain. We are always there to help you to stay fit and healthy.