Opioids are one of the most popular methods of pain management. However, they come with a lot of risks. Opioid addiction is a growing problem. That is why many people are looking into alternative pain management pain methods. There are many ways that pain can be managed without using opioids.
1. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are very effective for alleviating pain. Many of them can also be purchased over-the-counter. Not only can they alleviate pain, but they can also reduce fever and inflammation. Advil, Naproxen, Aleve and Excedrin are some of the most popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
However, it is important to note that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are not designed to be used for long periods of time. Studies have shown that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can increase the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
2. Tylenol
Tylenol is another over-the-counter drug that you can use in order to manage pain. Acetaminophen, which is the active ingredient in Tylenol, is found in many medications such as cold and flu medicines. Tylenol does not cause heart attacks and strokes like the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do. However, they can cause liver damage if they are used for long periods of time.
3. Antidepressants
Antidepressants are primarily used to treat depression. However, certain antidepressants can decrease pain. If the pain is caused by nerve damage, then antidepressants are even more effective. Antidepressants can be used to manage short and long-term pain. One of the reasons that antidepressants may be recommended is because chronic pain can cause depression.
4. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids can be used to treat chronic and acute pain. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation. They are often recommended to people who have chronic pain due to nerve damage, arthritis, cancer and injuries. However, corticosteroids come with unpleasant side effects. They can weaken the immune system. They can also cause weight gain and high blood pressure.
That is why your doctor may recommend that you start off with a low-dose. They are usually not used for long periods of time. 5. Physical Activity
5. Physical Activity
If you are looking for a natural way to alleviate pain, then exercising is one of the best things that you can do. Many people do not want to exercise because think that it will make their pain worse. However, when you exercise, your body produces its own painkillers. These chemicals are known as the endorphins.
Not only do endorphins alleviate pain, but they can also change the way that your body perceives pain. If the pain is severe, then it is best for you to start off slow and then gradually build up your intensity and time.
Walking is one of the best exercises that you can do if you suffer from chronic pain. It does not put a lot of strain on the body, and it is something that you can do almost anywhere. You may also want to do stretching exercises before and after your workout. Stretching can help alleviate pain and prevent injury.
Swimming is another great exercise for pain. It also does not put a lot of stress on the body. Additionally, swimming is great for all fitness levels.
6. Fish Oil
Fish oil is a great supplement for you to take because it has anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is one of the factors that contributes to chronic pain. There have also been studies done to show that fish oil can alleviate pain. One study involved patients who suffered from back pain and neck pain.
There were 125 patients involved in the study. They were asked to take 1,200 milligrams of fish oil per day. They took the fish oil for 75 days. Half of the subjects stated that they were able to stop taking their prescription painkillers.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is a type of ingredient that is found in spicy foods. It is found in many Indian dishes. It not only gives food a flavor kick, but it can also be used to alleviate pain. There was a study done that tested the effectiveness of turmeric on pain relief.
Turmeric was mixed with bromelain and Devil’s Claw. They were compared to people who took a placebo. The results of the study showed that the subjects who took the turmeric, bromelain and Devil’s claw experienced significant pain relief.
Curcumin is the compound in turmeric that helps alleviate pain. There was another study done that involved subjects who suffered from arthritis. They took a supplement that was made up of 75 percent curcumin. The subjects noticed a significant improvement in pain.
It is important to note that turmeric can act as a blood thinner. That is why you will need to avoid it if you are already taking a blood thinner. You should also consult with a doctor before you use turmeric if you have a medical condition.
8. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is one of the safest and most effective natural pain relievers. Resveratrol can inhibit the pathway that controls pain. It can also reduce inflammation in the body.
There was a study that compared resveratrol to aspirin. Resvertrol can be just as effective for alleviating pain as aspirin. While aspirin can help alleviate pain, it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Resveratrol can alleviate pain without causing the unwanted side effects.
Resveratrol is found in grapes, berries and wine. Not only can it alleviate pain, but it may also have anti-cancer benefits. Additionally, resveratrol may help prolong your life.
9. Heat Therapy and Cold Therapy
Both heat therapy and cold therapy can be effective for alleviating pain. If you sit in a warm, relaxing bath with Epsom salt, then you can reduce your pain. The bath will also help you clear your mind. Ice can also help reduce your pain.
However, it is important for you to know which method you should use. If you have an acute injury, then it is best for you to put ice on it right away. You can make the problem worst by putting heat on the injury. Heat increases blood flow, which can increase the swelling.
If you suffer from something like back spasms, then it is best for you to use heat therapy. You can take a warm shower. You can massage your back, head or whatever body part is hurting while you are under the water.
10. Magnesium
Magnesium is found in green leafy, vegetables, seafood, legumes, seeds and nuts. However, most people are not getting enough magnesium from their diet. In fact, it is estimated that 60 to 80 percent of people in America do not get enough magnesium. In addition to a poor diet, alcohol and illicit drugs can also deplete magnesium levels.
That is why most people will benefit from taking a magnesium supplement. Magnesium not only alleviates pain, but it can also have other health benefits. Magnesium has a calming effect on the body, which can help people sleep. Many people who suffer from chronic pain also have insomnia. Chronic pain can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. However, being sleep-deprived can also make the pain worse.
Additionally, magnesium helps the body maintain the appropriate PH balance. It also prevents lactic acid from building up in the body. Lactic acid buildup can cause muscle pain.
Opioid addiction is a real risk for those who are dealing with pain issues. However, there are many different alternatives to these dangerous drugs.
