Nearly 20% of Americans are routinely suffering from chronic pain each year. As we become older, the question of learning how to manage chronic pain becomes more prevalent.
But what if you’ve been searching for pain management solutions without any luck? What types of alternative pain management solutions should you pursue?
That’s what we’re here to look at today. Read on to find out more about alternative pain management options and whether they’re right for you.
Traditional Pain Management Methods
When people think of pain management, they probably first consider medication or even injection.
These include prescription pills that reduce pain. It might also include injecting pain-blocking agents to reduce overall discomfort.
Working with a pain management doctor improves the success rate of these methods. While they aren’t often considered alternative methods, they certainly have their merits.
That said, injection or medication doesn’t always work for patients. Something like physical therapy might be more conducive for certain individuals.
Physical Therapy
Those who aren’t comfortable with taking pills might pursue physical therapy (PT). PT is commonly used to treat conditions like arthritis to reduce pain. It also improves flexibility and mobility.
Physical therapy introduces a variety of alternative pain management methods. This includes massages and gentle stretches that target specific muscles and parts of the body. It also involves hot and cold therapy to relax tense muscles.
PT, therefore, improves overall circulation and restores a patient’s mobility. But what if someone’s tried physical therapy and wants something in addition?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Sometimes physically moving your body and muscles isn’t enough. Focusing on one’s mind and how it deals with or thinks about pain can be just as effective.
Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches someone skills about reducing discomfort associated with chronic pain. It focuses on developing positive thoughts to fight one’s pain.
This form of alternative pain management works best when it’s coupled with another form of pain management therapy. It’s also a great way to manage stress and other factors that exacerbate pain.
Laser Treatments
Laser treatment involves reaching layers of someone’s tissue without doing damage to other muscle tissue or the skin. It delivers a jolt of energy to help your muscles engage in a natural healing process.
Laser treatment benefits include improved circulation and relaxation. It sounds intimidating, but fear not. Laser treatments don’t are performed in an outpatient setting.
Other Key Ways to Manage Pain
Using different therapies is most beneficial when paired with other lifestyle changes. You can exercise more or even incorporate a few gentle workouts each day.
Eating healthier and getting more sleep definitely help reduce pain. It also increases the benefits of the alternative pain management methods from earlier. Pain affects us all differently, so choose the right strategy for you.
Exploring Pain Management Options
It’s hard to find alternative pain management options if you aren’t sure where to start. Use this guide to help you understand which methods work for you and treat your chronic pain today!
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