7 Remedies that help relieve my Pain
1. Taking Medication. I take some medication 1st thing in the mornings to manage my pain. In somecases, over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication does the job. There are two major generic types of NSAIDs: Ibuprofen and Naproxen. Brand names include Advil (for Ibuprofen) and Aleve (for naproxen). Use only if approved by your physician and be careful for using these products on a daily basis. There are several drug interactions and contraindications related to NSAIDs. But with my chronic and often moderate to severe pain, I need a stronger arsenal including prescribed pain medication, topical creams and patches which help dull pain. I also use cannabis and cbd products
2. Applying Heat. I keep my favorite old heating pad on the bed. I received another one as a gift, made like a vest so it heats my back, neck and shoulders. There are also moist pads you can put in the microwave or “rice bags” work well at home. Taking a warm shower is another form of heat therapy.
Caution: When using Heat Therapy, check your skin to make sure the heat is not causing a burn.
3. Applying Ice. Ice is also a good option for reducing pain. I use heat more often, but I found ice to be as soothing to my aching joints. I place a cold pack in a pillow case and apply it for 10-15 minutes Ice should not be left in direct contact with the skin for over 5 minutes due to the possibility of frostbite. You should always have a layer such as a pillow case in-between your skin and the ice.
4. Stretching. I stretch before getting out of bed, I start with gentle slow movements and stretches. I stretch my limbs, arms, legs, wrists, ankles, Making gentle circular motions, bending and extending the joints then Holding for 20–30 seconds. repeating two to three times. I wiggle my fingers and toes as I breathe in through my nose and exhale through my mouth. I imagine I’m releasing the pain.
5. Analgesic Creams, Patches & Gels. There are several different types of analgesic creams available over the counter (OTC) which can help relieve pain. Flex-all, Biofreeze Icy Hot are just a few.. Voltaren Gel is a popular anti-inflammatory gel. And there are also analgesic patches as well, like Salonica. There are also prescription strength lidocaine patches and baclofen cream that your doctor can prescribe for pain relief. Before using any of these options, please consult with your physician. It is also important to read the warnings and side effects on these products.
6. Massage pillows and Massage Guns Getting a loved one to knead your sore muscles would be ideal but if you don’t have that luxury or are alone like me,, find a sock and a tennis ball. Put a tennis ball inside a sock. Place the sock and ball at the back of your shoulder where it is sore. Lean against a wall, apply pressure to the tennis ball, and roll around, giving your self a massage. For deeper pain, I may also use my massage gun. But some areas are difficult to reach but the pressure and intensity give amazing relief. I was also gifted a portable massage pillow that attaches to a chair/headrest and is also heated. (Links #commisionearned)
7. Pray- Release All Worries. I turn on my playlist of inspirational music to encourage myself because starting the day in pain can be depressing. I have an Apple playlist “Joyful Noise of my favorite upbeat, encourging and motivating songs that i listen to on my hardest mornings. The music helps to dull the emotional pain and frustration that is present when I’m battling with physical pain. I say an earnest prayer asking for for strength for the day. I Release All Worries (RAW) and start my day feeling stronger and better.
Disclaimers-
I encourage you to consult a doctor before making any health changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition. No information on this site should be relied upon to determine diet, make a medical diagnosis, or determine treatment for a medical condition.
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