Prescription medication destroys more lives than illegal street drugs. Brands like Oxycontin and Tramadol contribute significantly to the opioid epidemic in the United States, with over 70% of fatalities caused by drugs. While you might have genuine reasons for such intense pain relief, there are numerous non-addictive ways you can supplement prescription medicines to stay safe. Over-the-counter painkillers can provide relief, but mixing drugs is not recommended. Instead, it would help to focus on health and lifestyle improvement via alternative therapies.
Cannabinoids
A cannabis plant contains chemical compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with the body physically and psychologically. For example, cannabinoids relieve pain and inflammation, regulate appetite, and stabilize emotions. CBD is derived from the hairs of the cannabis plant, which also contain THC. You get high from THC, but it can be extracted, so products like those from Simply CBD are safer. In addition, CBD can alter the brain and body’s behavior and communication, leading to pain relief. CBD is also found in some foods like ginseng and dark chocolate.
Common Painkillers
It might sound counterintuitive to include more pain relief medication. Still, there are many excellent non-addictive substances available over the counter. Medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, and paracetamol are ideal for moderate pain relief, especially when supplementing potent drugs. Using such medicines could help you reduce the amount of additive pain relief you require. However, mixing drugs can cause adverse reactions like slowed heart rate and drowsiness. Always consult your pharmacist before using OTC meds with your prescription.
Diet and Exercise
You can do more for pain relief if you actively help yourself. A stagnant and sedentary lifestyle won’t do you any good. And joint pain associated with arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries, and back pain will worsen if you don’t exercise. All you require is at least 15 mins per day of mild exercise to loosen up your muscles and reduce inflammation. Further, you should adjust your diet to include antioxidants and antiinflammatory foods like bananas. Finally, you should avoid Trans-fats and synthetic sugars entirely as they can cause increased muscle inflammation.
Holistic Therapies
Ancient medicines are not considered genuine by many medical doctors. However, millions of people worldwide find pain relief from many alternative therapies available. Acupressure and acupuncture are among the highest-rated methods. Massage and energy alignment therapies like Reiki also offer muscle relaxation. So rather than reaching for more painkillers, a trip to a holistic practitioner might provide some of the pain relief you require. While they aren’t medically licensed, most holistic therapists know physiotherapy and physiology.
Biofeedback Responses
Biofeedback techniques are among the strangest methods of relieving pain. Using visual and auditory feedback, biofeedback teaches people to recognize the signs and symptoms of emotional distress like anxiety and stress. First, your skin is attached to electrodes during a biofeedback session. Next, a monitor shows a sound, flash of light, or image based on signals sent by the electrodes/sensors. These signals show heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, sweat rate, and muscle activity. You can then reduce stress with meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises.
