Pain management is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care from their doctor. In fact, about 50 million adults report having some kind of chronic pain.

From back pain to muscle and joint aches, pain can interrupt your daily activities and prevent you from living life to the fullest.

And while it may be tempting to reach for an anti-inflammatory pill or ask the doctor for something stronger, there are a few other effective pain management techniques you can try first.

Keep reading for 5 surprising ways to manage pain.

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient eastern medical practice. The goal of acupuncture is to relieve pain by balancing the body’s flow of energy.

During this practice, an acupuncturist places very small needles into the skin. Depending on the location and type of pain, the acupuncturist will place the needles where they need to be for best results.

For most people, acupuncture is a relaxing experience. It is thought to release a hormone in the body called serotonin which boosts mood and relieves pain.

During acupuncture, the central nervous system is stimulated and releases natural chemicals into the body. When these chemicals are released into the muscles and the brain, the body can use its natural healing methods to relieve pain.

Regular acupuncture appointments may even be covered by insurance depending on your provider. The industry has gained popularity and legitimacy in the last few decades, making it easier to find a qualified acupuncturist in your area.

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, but it’s not for everyone. So, talk to your doctor before making an appointment with an acupuncturist.

2. Turmeric

Maybe you’ve heard of this spice in your favorite curry dishes, but did you know it also has healing properties?

Turmeric comes from an orange-colored root and it’s usually sold in powder form. It contains curcumin which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Chronic pain is often a result of musculoskeletal issues caused by inflammation. Turmeric can help ease the internal swelling and ease any pain.

The benefits of turmeric have been well researched. Some studies have even found that turmeric can be as effective in reducing inflammation as some over-the-counter pain medications.

So if you’re looking for ways to manage pain in a more natural way, consider adding a turmeric supplement to your diet.

Just cooking with turmeric will not give you the dosage you need for the therapeutic effects. But you can find a natural supplement in any health food store. If you are interested in other natural healing…
 
Continue reading the article and learn more about pain on Daisy Linden’s blog.