When you are struggling with chronic pain, it can feel impossible to get your pain under control. While one technique or treatment may work to reduce pain, it often takes complementary treatments to manage chronic pain effectively. From prescription medications, to diet changes and acupuncture, you can find ways to live your best life while coping with the stress that chronic pain often brings. While it may take time to find the right combination of treatment that works for you, it is worth the effort of trying out a variety of complementary therapies.

Prescription Medications to Treat Chronic Pain

For people suffering with chronic pain, medications are usually the first line of defense. First you might try over-the-counter pain relievers, only to move on to more powerful prescription medications. You may need prescription medications to manage chronic pain for years, but that does not mean you can't try alternative therapies to try and reduce your need for medications, especially if you don't like the side effects of prescription medications. 

Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Acupuncture has been around for centuries, and according to Harvard Medical School, acupuncture is worth trying when you are suffering from chronic pain. Acupuncture produces few, if any, negative side effects, and can be used in conjunction with other therapies. When your muscles and joints are sore and you have not been able to find relief, acupuncture can help. Through the use of thin, hair-like needles, your acupuncturist will stimulate pressure points on your body that help reduce or eliminate chronic pain.

Physical Therapy and Gentle Exercise

It can be hard to get exercise when you are in chronic pain, even when gentle exercise may help your condition. If you work with a physical therapist, you can learn new stretches and exercises that will target your specific areas of pain. When the pain is spread throughout your body, exercise should be slow and gentle so that you don't make your problems worse.

Consider Dietary Changes

There are foods that cause inflammation and foods that reduce inflammation, a major cause of chronic pain in your body. In addition, allergies to certain foods such as gluten, dairy, eggs, or nuts can cause you to suffer from chronic pain. Talk with your doctor about possible changes in your diet to see if this helps reduce your problems with chronic pain.

For more information on your pain management options, see this website.

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