Any discomfort or pain lasting more than 12 weeks is considered to be chronic. Limitations in the essential aspects of our lives, like work and relationships, leisure, and self-care, are linked to suffering from chronic discomfort. This is one common reason behind our visits to the doctor, taking time away from work or emotional stress, or addiction to drugs.
In the last few times, we’ve seen remarkable progress tracing pain to its biological origins. Additionally, new methods for pain management emerge that do not rely on drugs or invasive surgical procedures. One of them is the naturopathic approach to medicine.
Treating Chronic Pain Naturally
The first step in any pain management plan should be discussing the cause of the discomfort with your physician. Then, you should consult professionals about the most effective natural remedies that fit your needs.
Here are some most effective natural cures offered by a naturopathic doctor in Kitchener for persistent pain in the joints, muscles, and other body areas:
1. Acupuncture
In acupuncture, extremely tiny needles are placed at varying levels and angles in some body regions. The theory is that every needle can alter feelings of discomfort within specific body areas.
It can be a beneficial treatment for various chronic pain disorders like neck, back, and joint pain like osteoarthritis. Acupuncture in Kitchener is available; however, it must be administered by an expert who is both certified and licensed to do it.
2. Massage Therapy
It is a type of therapy where the professional works on the patient’s muscles and other soft tissues. The pain can be relieved by massaging the area affected in an elongated, steady, circular motion using bare hands and massage products such as powder, heated oil, and hand cream.
It not only helps to reduce muscle spasms, but it can also aid you in achieving an underlying condition known as the “relaxation response.” This occurs when your breathing and heart rates slow down, your blood pressure decreases, and you lower your stress levels.
3. Meditation
Meditation involves focusing on breathing or a mantra to calm the mind. It is often used with mindfulness, the practice of being completely present in every moment.
By easing muscle tension, relaxation can ease the pain and stop it from worsening. It may help your sleep and energy levels, reduce fatigue and anxiety, and increase the efficacy of other treatments for pain.
4. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a great option to ease chronic pain in many instances, mainly when the pain is caused by an underlying condition such as osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, or spinal stenosis.
Chiropractors believe the body’s natural healing capabilities significantly increase when the spine is aligned correctly. This treatment aims to improve flexibility and joint functionality by using manual therapy techniques like stretching and manipulation of the spine.
5. Physical Therapy
Evidence suggests that rehabilitation services, like exercises and physical therapy, help manage chronic pain. They have been proven to improve circulation and blood flow, reduce stiffness and retention of fluid, and increase the body part affected’s flexibility, strength, and function.
Exercise and movement have been proven to decrease stress, improve the quality of life, and sleep, and help prevent or reverse the secondary brain changes linked to chronic pain. To explore more about this kind of therapy, you can ask your naturopathic practitioner, or you can check the websites of trusted wellness clinics.
Conclusion
Naturopathic medicine addresses the root cause of pain, not the symptoms, to help promote wellness and prevent illness. Since chronic pain is complicated, Naturopaths can collaborate with other medical experts to assist you in managing the condition and minimize its impact on your daily life. But, consulting a physician before beginning any treatment plan is still advised.
