Alternative solutions, complementary to treatments, can help to effectively reduce pain and restore a good quality of life.
Recurrently, we erase our small daily pains with painkillers. A headache? We throw ourselves on aspirin. Painful periods? We start taking ibuprofen. And despite our heightened awareness of the risks associated with frequent medication, we give in to the temptation to eradicate this ailment by all chemical means. Because yes, these drugs are not without danger.
If used improperly, these substances can create an addiction effect and, worse, cause serious intoxication (e.g. codeine). Recently, we could still buy them over the counter, but since July 2017, these products are only available on prescription.
Despite increasingly controlled self-medication, the use of painkillers for our moderate pain remains too high, and reserving these drugs for rarer uses would be ideal. So, how can we manage to soothe or relieve our little aches and pains without resorting to chemical substances?
Good news! Traditional medicine is full of techniques and substances with no side effects for the body that can get you back on your feet quickly: Chronic Pain Home Remedies.
Clay
Relaxing, it relieves muscular tension in a poultice, as well as digestive, abdominal or joint pains. Recognisable by their colour, the different types of clay (green, pink, white) have a relatively similar composition, but dissimilar uses. Green clay is preferred for external use, applied in a thick layer to the area to be treated, while white clay is best taken orally, mixed with water, in the morning.
Essential oils
By rubbing on the targeted area, in a massage or in a bath, essential oils can cure all types of pain, depending on the plants selected. The oral route is generally reserved for medical prescription in order to avoid any risk of overdosing. To neutralise everyday pain, you can use wintergreen for osteoarthritis, lavandin super for muscle pain, Roman chamomile for headaches and black spruce for all types of pain.
Magnets
Magnetic therapy relieves pain by placing a magnet on its starting point or on its path. It is based on the fact that magnetic fields interfere with our biological functioning. Looking like small black stones, therapeutic magnets have a direct action on the muscle fibres: on the one hand, they are myorelaxing (they relax the fibres) and on the other hand they are myocontracting (they stimulate them). However, this practice is not recommended for pregnant women under 3 months and for young children.
Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate is an excellent way to combat digestive pain. Its immediate antacid effect neutralises digestive burning and gastro-oesophageal reflux. It also improves digestion by rebalancing the internal environment of the digestive tract. This inexpensive white powder, which we use in the kitchen or for cleaning, reduces inflammation. It is mixed with water and lemon or herbal tea for a better taste.
The do-in
We are familiar with acupuncture, which uses needles to unblock or accelerate blocked energy. With do-in, or acupressure, the approach is to relieve ailments with the fingertips, on the points that mark out the energy circuits. To relieve stress, we massage the palm of the hand or the neck. To relieve back pain, we massage the sole of the foot. Even more amazing: to relieve heartburn, you should massage the roots of your toes.
Qi gong
Qi gong is an energetic physical practice that has beneficial effects on stress reduction, joint pain reduction and prevention of tissue ageing, among other things. By linking postures similar to dance and martial arts, Qi Gong is not only a wellness tool, but also a therapeutic one. Qi Gong is surprisingly precise and requires a great deal of concentration and rigour, and breathing plays an important role.
Mindfulness
Many scientists have observed the benefits of meditation and mindfulness, including reducing all types of pain. This practice also helps to better manage stress, reduce the risk of depression, sleep better and increase general well-being.
Anti-inflammatory foods
Pain and depression have been linked to high levels of inflammation in the body. By choosing an anti-inflammatory diet of unrefined foods, fruits and vegetables, fatty fish, and nuts, chronic pain symptoms can be reduced.
Hypnosis
This ancient practice has proven to be very beneficial to the body and mind. Whether you prefer to seek the help of a certified therapist or opt to learn self-hypnosis via books or smartphone apps, the benefits are the same: reduced pain, increased relaxation and sleep, and reduced emotional distress.
Probiotics
The set of living micro-organisms called probiotics help our “good” bacteria and improve digestion. People suffering from chronic diseases such as Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome often benefit from them. You can find them in supplement form or in certain foods such as yoghurt.
Music
This may sound like a very simple technique, but it works: listening to music carefully for about 30 minutes twice a day reduces anxiety, increases psycho-physical well-being and helps you sleep better. Choose your favourite songs and sit back for a relaxing music therapy session!
Conclusion
Beyond this general advice, it is important to adapt the local treatment to the pain and its modalities: the place of appearance, its origin and its intensity. For each disorder, there are natural treatments, which are essential to know in order to turn to more gentle medicines and gradually banish chemicals from our body.