When pain is a regular visitor at your door, you might be a sufferer of chronic pain. Chronic pain is defined as ongoing pain that keeps returning or lasts longer than normal when it comes to healing. It can last for several months or even years. Chronic pain has a negative impact on a person’s ability to function in daily life.
Many sufferers of chronic pain turn to painkillers for relief. But long-term use of over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can cause adverse side-effects, including damage to the kidneys and liver, increased risk of heart attack or stroke and risk of the development of stomach ulcers or bleeding (to name a few).
Natural Chronic Pain Relief Methods in Tucker, GA
It is recommended that individuals suffering from chronic pain pursue alternative options for pain relief to avoid these and other side effects. Chiropractic care in Tucker, GA has been proven to help people suffering from chronic pain. But what do you do when you are not able to get into the chiropractor’s office or if you are in between sessions and want a little extra pain-relieving boost? These natural pain remedies can help in addition to chiropractic care in Tucker, with many symptoms related to conditions such as chronic pain, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, bursitis and other forms of inflammation.
1. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil has been touted for its pain relief benefits. Research suggests that it has anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and antioxidant effects in animals. These properties are hugely beneficial for sufferers of chronic pain.
2. Cloves
Cloves have been used traditionally as a home remedy for pain. The clove comes from the Eugenia caryophyllata plant.
One study found that cloves are as effective as a topical gel used in dentists’ offices to reduce needle pain, known as benzocaine. During the study, patients were given clove, benzocaine gel or a placebo on the inside of their mouths for pain relief. Patients who received both clove and benzocaine gels reported lower levels of pain.
Other research points to the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral and antifungal activity associated with clove oil use.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric contains an active ingredient, curcuma, which is known for its pain-relieving properties. One 2014 study found curcuma extract to be as effective for pain management as ibuprofen. Patients with knee osteoarthritis were examined and given either treatment for 4 weeks. Patients who took curcuma extract reported the C. domestica extract to be as effective as ibuprofen.
4. Feverfew
Feverfew, also known as bachelor’s buttons or featherfew, is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat migraine headaches, fever, rheumatoid arthritis, toothaches and stomach aches. It contains compounds that may reduce muscle spasms and inflammation, likely do to the key active compounds, flavonoids and sequiterpene lactones.
One 2011 research review found that feverfew leaves and flowers contain pain-relieving properties.
It can cause side effects so it is important to talk with your healthcare provider before taking this herb.
5. Capsaicin
Capsaicin has been used for pain relief for many years. The substance is found in chili peppers. It can be taken by capsule, cooked in food or applied in a cream.
One 2011 study shares the important role capsaicin plays in pain management. It is believed to be effective by reducing the skin’s sensitivity as it works on nociceptor fibers, which are nerves that carry pain signals.
In addition to seeing your chiropractor for your chronic pain, consider the above natural treatment methods to supplement your Tucker, GA chiropractic treatment regimen.