5 Helpful Methods of Modern Pain Management

According to the CDC, at least 20% of adults in the U.S. suffer from chronic pain.

Chronic pain is a severe condition that can lead to other harmful health ailments such as sleep problems, depression, social isolation, and drug addiction. While there is no simple cure for those who suffer, there are ways to manage the pain and live a more comfortable life.

Do you suffer from chronic pain? If so, please keep reading for six helpful methods of modern pain management that can help you relieve discomfort and take back your life.

1. Hot and Cold Therapy

Hot and cold therapy is a helpful pain management technique often used to relieve the aching pains associated with muscle or joint damage.

Heat therapy helps to relax muscles and dilate your blood vessels. It’s often used after a physical injury to promote healing.

Cold therapy works by reducing blood flow and the inflammation that causes chronic pain. Simply wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to your skin where you’re feeling pain.

2. Massage

Massage is a form of soft-tissue therapy. People often benefit from this technique when performed regularly and combined with other pain management treatments.

The many benefits of massage may include:

• Improved flexibility and circulation
• Reduced stiffness
• Relaxation
• Improved posture
• Reduced inflammation

While there is mixed evidence on its effectiveness in treating other forms of chronic pain, massage is highly beneficial when treating lower back pain and muscle soreness.

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient form of therapy that many consider one of today’s best pain management options. It involves a certified practitioner applying small and thin needles to the skin at different points in the body.

Studies performed by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health show supporting evidence that acupuncture can be successfully used to help people manage chronic pain. It may help relieve lower back, neck, and knee pain as well as osteoarthritis.

4. Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is a modernized pain management technique that is often used to reduce the many symptoms of chronic pain. This psychological treatment uses talk therapy to reduce the negative impact of pain on your mental health.

CBT is found to be effective at immediately reducing pain and the anxiety associated with it. In addition, it results in an improved quality of life for most patients by targeting the psychological and emotional aspects of pain.

5. Cannabidiol

The use of medicinal cannabidiol (CBD) has become increasingly popular as a new pain management technique.

People report using CBD oil for relief from chronic pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, and depression. It comes in various strengths, and people use it in many different ways, such as in tinctures, gummies, lotions, and salves. Check out this guide to CBD body salve for more information on proper dosage and what may work best for you.

Successful Modern Pain Management

Chronic pain is a serious condition that shouldn’t be ignored.

There are several forms of modern pain management that may help ease discomfort and improve the quality of your life. Experiment with your options until you find a treatment that works best for you.

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Read Also: 4 Activities to Help Minimize Back Pain