8 Natural and Scientifically Proven Methods to Stop Pain

Lisa Franchi February 05, 2013

In this very stressful world, aches and pains are normal. And many times, sufferers are told that they simply have to ‘live with their pain’. But surely, you don’t want to experience it over and over again and allow it to control your life. Many chronic pain problems don’t have known causes but that doesn’t mean you cannot beat them. Today, let us talk about some natural, yet scientifically proven methods to stop pain!

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

In a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, cognitive-behavioural therapy is considered the best treatment for people with body-wide pain. This therapy is proven to change how you think about pain and improve your condition by learning significant lifestyle changes and pain management strategies. CBT is also a popular therapy used to alleviate stress – the most common factor of chronic pain.

Acupuncture

S studies show that people who used acupuncture for chronic pain substantially improve their condition and become less prone to aches and pains. This ancient practice, which involved inserting needles to certain points in the body, is based in the idea of restoring the flow of energy (Qi) in your system. Other studies suggest that acupuncture promotes the health of the nervous system and musculoskeletal system – areas where chronic pain usually begins. Furthermore, acupuncture has been proven to effectively improve condition of people suffering from migraine, headache, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and back pain.

Massage

Massage doesn’t just alleviate pain; it also prevents the occurrence of chronic pain by promoting blood flow and stimulating the production of endorphins and serotonin (the feel-good hormones in the brain and the body’s natural painkillers). In a study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, researchers found that massage can help suppress genes that cause inflammation. In many hospitals and clinics, massage is used as a complementary treatment for patients having serious physical illnesses, especially those who have undergone surgeries.

Meditation

People with chronic pain are advised to undergo meditation to improve their condition and manage the symptoms. This mental exercise has won massive popularity worldwide after it was proven to promote growth and development of the brain even during adulthood. Meditation also helps the sufferer shift his attention from pain. As a result, he experiences a lesser degree of symptoms.

Yoga

Most health clubs and wellness centres in Britain now offer yoga classes. This ancient practice is widely used to treat lower back pain, arthritis and back pain. In one study, scientists noticed that people with lower back pain experienced a 42% reduction in pain and 46% reduction in depressive symptoms. The healing effects of yoga are attributed to its ability to relieve stress and promote relaxation.

Qigong and Tai Chi

New research suggests that this slow-phase body-and-mind exercise may be as effective as painkillers. In the study by Robert Wood Johnson Medical School researchers, women with fibromyalgia reported less pain after practising qigong. In another study by the University of Maryland, both qigong and Tai Chi were found to help alleviate pain. Scientists however, have not yet fully understood the underlying mechanism behind the healing effects of these therapies.

Hypnosis

Another great natural therapy for fibromyalgia and lower back pain is hypnosis. Through hypnosis, you visualise yourself living a pain-free life with the help of a trained practitioner.  It also helps you get rid of unwanted feelings and emotions that often aggravate pain. Currently, hypnosis, as well as guided imagery, is used to treat behavioural problems, including phobia.

Herbal Remedies

In China and some parts of Asia, taking herbal medications, including teas and plant extracts is a popular method of alleviating pain. Some people claim that herbal remedies ease inflammation that results to chronic pain but there’s a little research supporting this. Nevertheless, many doctors observed that patients (especially those with rheumatoid arthritis) who take omega-3 fish oil supplements and anti-inflammatory herbal spices experienced lesser pain. It is important though to consult a medical professional before taking herbal medications to avoid complications and undesirable side effects. Also, there are some herbs that cannot be taken with medications.

 

Dear Readers,

Among the natural therapies listed here, which do you think is the most effective?

Share your comment below.