Chronic Pain
It is estimated that that there are at least 6 million people in the UK alone, who suffer from chronic pain on a daily basis. The most prevalent causes are arthritis, neck shoulder and back pain and recurrent headaches. These conditions are now so common that they are seen as an inevitable part of life. People with chronic pain often endure considerable suffering and distress as well as impaired mobility, sleep disturbances and reduced confidence.
In fact chronic pain has become one of the major health and social challenges of our time, with over £400 million being spent on over the counter painkillers. There is no doubt that painkillers can be very effective in relieving pain, but they are not without there side effects and other serious concerns.
• Some over the counter pain killers are addictive
• Others are thought to be linked to suicides
• NSAIDs are thought to cause kidney damage and intestinal bleeding
• Far too many people are admitted to hospital to be treated for the side affects of NSAIDs
Unfortunately when it comes to treating people with chronic pain, the pharmaceutical options are limited. So what is the answer? Are there any natural approaches that can help to alleviate pain levels?
The good news is that in recent years there have been considerable improvements in the quality of life that can be achieved using natural and holistic methods. For example.
• Resolving the underlying cause of pain
• Eating a whole food diet relatively free from sugar, processed foods, caffeine and alcohol
• The use of visualization and meditation
• Remedial exercise
• Stress management and relaxation
• Manipulative therapies
• Acupuncture
• Nutritional and naturopathic therapies and supplementation
• Hydration
Chronic pain rarely has a simple diagnosis. Back pain may be caused by a pulled muscle or a bulging disc, but if it is a recurring problem it is nearly always related to emotional and nutritional factors as well. For lasting improvement and effective healing these factors need to be addresses as well.
Chronic pain may also be due to factors such as excessive weight, posture, poor core muscle development, an inflamed gut, or possible foods that are causing an allergic response that is weakening the muscles around the injury.
The holistic treatment approach for chronic pain must be multifaceted if it is to be successful. But unfortunately, although chronic pain may be alleviated temporarily, it cannot be cured by taking painkillers.
Janet L. Matthews
Skype ID: lindajanetmatthews
