Alternative Therapies to Stop Pain: A Three Part Series: Part 2

Physical Therapies To Stop Pain

There are a number of effective solutions that can take pain out of your life. In fact, they all work together to make you feel better. These are clinically-based treatments, exercises, and foods that have been found to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and improve overall quality of life.

However, none of these treatments carry the side effects and risks of over-the-counter or prescription pain medications.

Here are four alternative pain relief methods that have been proven effective:

1. Acupuncture has been used throughout Asia for thousands of years to treat pain. The small needles help release energy blockages in painful areas, improving the flow of vital energy (chi). Research confirms that acupuncture stimulates the production of neurotransmitters that help block pain.
2. Craniosacral therapy uses gentle manipulations to improve circulation and support neurological health and relaxation. The practitioner gently moves bones, tendons, and other tissues to release areas of tightness.
3. Massage has become a multidimensional art with countless techniques and methods. Results include muscle relaxation with improved circulation, reduction of stress hormones, and endorphin release.
4. Frequency specific microcurrent therapy uses a machine that conducts a very light electrical current to the inflamed area. This helps avert pain signals. It stimulates circulation and healing. Originally used to accelerate healing of sports injuries, this technology has broad applications for chronic pain.

Gentle Exercise Brings Relief

Gentle exercise—in particular mind-body practices like yoga and tai chi—offer another way to help reduce pain. Low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, and mind-body practices improve circulation to stiff and painful areas. They release endorphins that alleviate pain. Exercise also helps cleanse toxins and stress hormones that build up in muscles and tissues.

Yoga, tai chi, and other mind-body exercises offer the additional benefits of meditation for reducing stress hormones and relaxing mind and body. Many studies have shown these practices, including simple meditation, can alleviate pain and improve numerous areas of health.