Between meetings, deadlines, housework and family commitments, our modern lifestyles only seem to be getting busier and busier.
So when a misplaced step, bump or twinge throws a spanner in the works, it has the potential to send our schedules into disarray.
Luckily, there are some helpful alternative pain relief methods and ingredients that may allow you to get back to your regular routine.
If your symptoms are mild, you may find the following tips useful. However, if you have any concerns about it’s important to see a suitably qualified health professional. During your appointment, you may wish to discuss incorporating these alternative pain relief methods and ingredients into your recovery.
Heat or Ice
Using temperature to help relieve your mild aches and pains is a commonly used alternative pain relief method.
If you’ve recently injured yourself, follow the RICER method and ice the area for 20 minutes every two hours to help reduce swelling. Wrap your ice pack, crushed ice or packet of frozen peas in a clean tea towel before applying to avoid direct contact with the skin.
It’s important to avoid heat if you’re experiencing a soft tissue injury, as this may increase swelling in the area and further aggravate the injury.
If your mild pain stems from muscle tension rather than injury, you may find a heat pack or warm bath helpful.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used as a method of relieving and managing mild pain for centuries. A traditional Chinese practice, it works by placing tiny needles into specific points along your skin.
If you would like to explore acupuncture, speak to a qualified acupuncturist.
Anti-Inflammatory Fats
Fats have a unique relationship with pain. Some may increase inflammation in the body, while others are anti-inflammatory.
Pro-inflammatory fats are those found in greasy and processed foods. Anti-inflammatory fats include those found in avocadoes, fish, flaxseeds, olive oil, nuts and seeds.
White Willow Bark
White willow bark has been traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to help relieve pain and inflammation for hundreds of years.
Curcumin
Curcumin is derived from turmeric and is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to enhance wound healing as well as relieve digestive discomfort. Modern research also indicates that Curcumin may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Arnica
Arnica Montana is traditionally used in Homeopathic medicine to help relieve symptoms of mild soft tissue trauma, including bruising, swelling and mild strains.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, talk to your health professional.
The information provided in reference to these ingredients is general in nature and provided as information only. Any product specific therapeutic claims for these ingredients are linked to specific dosage requirements based on evidence of traditional or scientific nature.
What's Next?
Did you find this article helpful? If so, you may find these articles useful:
Mild Aches And Pains: 10 Things You Should Know
The Truth About Stretching Your Muscles Every Day
These Super Easy Tips May Help Your Say Goodbye To Sore Muscles
References
- Better Health Channel May 2019, Pain and Pain Management – Adults, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pain-and-pain-management-adults
- Maroon, J C, Bost, J W, Maroon, A 2010, Surgical Neurology International, “Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agents for Pain Relief”, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3011108/
