Nothing will compel you to visit your doctor faster than the presence of pain. Unfortunately, due to the opioid epidemic and the subsequent scheduling of opioids, your doctor can do very little for your pain. He or she will most likely refer you to a pain management clinic of some type.
The medical staff at the pain management facility will determine whether you need prescription strength painkiller. In most cases, they will determine that your pain can be managed in other ways, and if a prescription is given, you will have to return to the pain center every 30 days for a new prescription.
You could skip that hassle and try these natural alternatives to opioid drugs instead.
Chiropractic Care
When you visit a chiropractor he or she will usually perform an adjustment. This means the doctor will manipulate your spine in a way that properly aligns it and this will almost instantly relieve many types of pain. Most major insurance companies cover a certain number of chiropractic visits per year, and for lasting pain relief, you will need regular appointments in most cases.
White Willow Bark
You might call this nature’s aspirin, as it reduces inflammation, just as aspirin does. You can chew the bark or grind the bark into a powder to make a tea. You can also order white willow bark in various forms. Be aware that willow bark has the same side effects as aspirin, such as an upset stomach.
Cloves
Cloves have been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever. It is often touted as an excellent remedy for tooth pain. However, clove oil is the perfect natural remedy for muscle and joint pain. It is applied topically and can be purchased from many sources.
Chili Peppers
If you have nerve pain, such as peripheral neuropathy, you should take a closer look at chili peppers. These potent peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin. Fortunately, you don’t have to figure out how to get this wonderful chemical out of the peppers. You can purchase capsaicin creams over the counter, online and in many health food stores.
Massage Therapy
Visit a licensed massage therapist and describe your pain to him or her. The chances are very good they can offer you a message that will alleviate your pain, especially if the pain is muscle or soft tissue related.
Exercise
It’s hard to think about exercising when you are in pain, but this is actually one of the most effective natural painkillers. Even a going for a walk or doing gentle exercises will give you some level of relief. Exercise will also give you a wonderful sense of well-being due to the endorphins that are released in the brain when you exercise.
You don’t have to live with constant pain even if your doctor or pain management specialist refuses to prescribe pain medication for you. Simply take matters into your own hands and take advantage of the many natural options available to you, but make sure none of the natural pain relieving options you try will interfere with any medications you currently take or health conditions you may have.
