According to a 2023 report by the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC), 24.3% of American adults had chronic pain. Whereas 8.5% of adults had chronic pain that hindered their life activities. Despite advancements in medical sciences, the statistics for the following years have not been promising.
One thing is clear: Traditional medicines and treatments are insufficient to curb this silent storm. Seeking a safer approach, such as alternative pain management treatments, can be worth considering. From acupuncture to cryotherapy, and natural remedies like arnica, people have found lasting relief from chronic pain and enhanced their quality of life.
If you’re tired of relying on painkillers and want to explore non-invasive options, this guide is for you. Here are seven alternative treatments for chronic relief that have done wonders for people
1. Acupuncture
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends acupuncture for more than 100 medical conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal problems, and neurological issues. Acupuncture has also shown promising results for different types of pain, such as:
- Headaches
- Knee pain
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Postoperative pain
- Sciatica
- Myofascial pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Labour pain
During acupuncture, disposable, stainless steel needles are inserted into specific areas of your body to activate sensory nerves under the skin. When acu-points are stimulated, it triggers the nervous system to release natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and serotonin. Acupuncture also increases blood circulation in the affected area, reducing inflammation and promoting overall wellness.
Most people experience slight pressure and ache in the areas where needles are inserted. Choose a well-trained and trusted provider who uses sterilized needles and complies with FDA regulations.
1. Aspen Laser Therapy
Aspen laser therapy is an innovative and clinically proven treatment providing advanced pain relief. It delivers low-level laser light to targeted areas of the body. Also known as photobiomodulation, aspen laser therapy stimulates cell processes at the mitochondrial level, triggering a biochemical response. The results are reduced inflammation, increased blood circulation, and faster healing.
Aspen laser therapy is excellent for people suffering from:
- Sports injuries
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Joint pain
- Frozen shoulder
- Achilles tendonitis
- Hamstring tears
- Bell’s palsy
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Chronic pain
Other benefits of aspen laser therapy include cellular regeneration and tissue repair. It is pain-free and patients often describe a feeling of warmth and relaxation. A typical session lasts between 5 to 15 minutes and has minimal side effects.
3. Yoga
Moving your body is one of the most beneficial ways to manage pain. However, movement that focuses on breathing, mindfulness, and flexibility, such as yoga, can double the benefits. Consider learning various yoga types and styles, such as:
- Vinyasa
- Hatha
- Ashtanga
- Yin
- Kundalini
While Ashtanga is a vigorous form of yoga that involves rapid postures and focuses on upper body strength, Yin is a meditative style that is perfect for relaxing the body and finding inner peace. An expert can help you find the perfect yoga style based on your health concerns and pain levels.
4. Tai Chi
In addition to yoga, tai chi can also help with chronic pain from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. It is an ancient Chinese practice that combines slow and deliberate movements with breathing exercises. Also known as “meditation in motion,” tai chi can increase flexibility and improve muscle strength.
If you wish to relieve chronic pain while improving holistic well-being, tai chi is your safest option. It can contribute to better sleep and reduce anxiety, allowing you to live a more fulfilling life.
5. Cryotherapy
When you press a bag of frozen peas on your swollen ankle, you’re utilizing the basic version of cryotherapy. Commonly known as cold therapy, it is the use of extreme cold to freeze and remove abnormal tissue.
The cold temperature temporarily numbs the nerves and minimizes pain signals sent to the brain. It also constricts blood vessels in the affected area, reducing inflammation and joints. Cryotherapy relaxes tensed muscles, which can alleviate pain associated with tendonitis, sprains, and arthritis.
The effectiveness of cryotherapy depends upon various factors, such as:
1. Application
The benefits of cold therapy can be availed through various methods, including cold gel packs and cold compressors. Nowadays, cryotherapy chambers are becoming increasingly popular. It is a specialized enclosure where individuals are exposed to extreme cold temperatures -110°C to -160°C.
2. Timing
The timing of cryotherapy is equally important. Start applying cold treatments right after an acute injury. For prolonged pain, consider a cryotherapy chamber treatment from a trusted medical spa.
3. Duration
Traditional cryotherapy treatments are recommended for 10-20 minutes. However, a cryotherapy session inside the chamber should last from 2-4 minutes.
Cryotherapy can restore athletic performance and restore the activity between the sympathetic nervous system and skeletal muscle.
6. Chiropractic Treatment
If you’re looking for a non-surgical treatment for chronic neck and back pain, chiropractic treatment might be the best option. During a chiropractic adjustment, a licensed chiropractor uses their hands or special equipment to apply controlled force and manipulate joints in your body. It can correct your body’s alignment and help with posture.
Chiropractic care also helps with minor injuries, such as:
- Whiplash
- Pinched nerves
- Damaged spinal discs
- Shoulder and rotator cuff injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Achilles tendon issues
An expert chiropractor will order diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, to understand more about your musculoskeletal system. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, they will create a unique treatment plan to ensure pain relief.
7. Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy
In addition to chiropractic care, osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) has also emerged as a reliable alternative treatment. It is a hands-on treatment that uses stretches and gentle pressure to move and manipulate a person’s muscles and joints. The benefits of OMT include:
- Improved range of motion
- Enhanced mobility
- Relief from chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia
- Relief from joint stiffness and restriction
- Relief from pregnancy-related issues, such as pelvic girdle pain and lower back pain
OMT is performed by Doctors of osteopathic medicine, called DOs, but medical doctors with specialized training can also perform it. DOs might apply slow, continuous pressure or use quick, sudden movements depending on their technique.
