Whether you have just started to experience pain, or it has been there for years, there are some things you can try to bring relief. Natural pain relief has the benefit of helping to heal your body and ease pain without the need for painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (or at least, reducing your reliance on painkillers). Here are some helpful tips for you to try.
1. Increase Your Exercise
When you are experiencing pain, it is easy to be hesitant about exercising. However, simple activities such as walking and swimming block pain signals to your brain, bringing some relief. You can choose your exercise type depending on your pain and where it is, but it is important to bear in mind that you are likely to experience some discomfort when you are exercising. This is due to your muscles, ligaments and joints stretching and getting stronger – and it is beneficial. If exercising makes your pain worse, you should contact your doctor.
2. Control Your Breathing
Deep breathing helps to relax you, and easing tension in muscles can reduce your pain. To do this, find somewhere to sit or lie comfortably and place one hand on your stomach. Breathe deeply, hold each breath for a moment, and slowly breathe out. Focus on breathing more slowly, and let your body relax a little more each time.
3. Get A Good Night’s Sleep
This is sometimes easier said than done, particularly if your pain wakes you up in the night. There are some things you can try to improve your sleep quality, because sleep deprivation can make pain worse:
- Go to bed and get up at the same time each day, to get your body used to a routine.
- Avoid caffeine in the afternoon.
- Try your deep breathing exercises when you are in bed.
- Exercise during the day.
4. Soak In The Bath
Soaking your body in warm water can help with muscle pain and spasms. Using essential oils such as lavender in your bath can also help to relax your muscles, easing pain. Having a bath in the evening before you go to bed helps you to unwind, so you may sleep better too.
5. Try Physical Therapy For Natural Pain Relief
Physical therapy, such as osteopathy or musculoskeletal therapy, can be used to relieve pain. Both osteopathy and musculoskeletal therapy are hands-on, manual therapies where your therapist manipulates joints, muscles and tendons to improve function and reduce pain. Regular sessions will improve your range of movement, and begin healing the underlying cause of your pain. Your therapist will be able to measure improvement and tweak your treatment plan to ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible.
Book Your Appointment Now…
At Northwich Foot Clinic in Cheshire, we offer osteopathy and musculoskeletal therapy – both of which can provide natural pain relief. Booking your appointment is easy – head over to our online booking system, or call us on 01606 45077.