Living with pain, whether it is acute, sub-acute, or chronic, depending on the person, situation, and health condition(s), can undoubtedly be horrible. Surgery may be an option for some individuals, but that does not mean it is always the best or most ideal solution, nor may it be what the person wants, mainly when other less invasive options exist. Utilizing specific doctor-recommended nonsurgical solutions for pain could be a perfect starting point to reduce and or eliminate pain and provide much-desired relief.
Massage
Massage could help with pain and make the body feel much better. It can also help decrease anxiety, stress, and blood pressure. However, speaking to your doctor at Oklahoma Interventional Spine & Pain is vital before getting a massage. Some types of massage could worsen certain kinds of pain, especially if the masseuse does not do it correctly. Be honest about your health conditions so the masseuse chooses the correct massage and knows how to properly and carefully manipulate your body.
Acupuncture
Some might instantly run for it when they hear “needles.” However, according to Oklahoma Interventional Spine & Pain, acupuncture can be an excellent way to help ease pain. This traditional Chinese medicine could help significantly, including on the back and for migraines, primarily when using it on a schedule. Considering the thin structure of the needles, many do not feel pain during the sessions when the needles get adequately positioned, but some will feel different sensations.
Choosing a qualified acupuncturist could increase the chances of the sessions being successful. It is crucial to adhere to all instructions the acupuncturist gives you before, during, and after the session.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help with reducing pain while helping you feel better regularly. Your doctor can recommend a qualified physical therapist to best help with your condition. The physical therapist may also utilize other modalities to help with pain, such as electrical stimulation (electrotherapy) and transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS).
In addition to doing in-person sessions, the physical therapist may suggest specific techniques and exercises at home in between sessions to encourage healing and reduce pain. At-home exercises allow you to perform particular techniques during an attack to provide relief. This benefit may especially be the case if the sessions are only once per week or even less frequent.
Heating pad
A heating pad draws blood flow to the area where you put it. Also, a heating pad can help ease sore, tight muscles and stiff joints while calming pain, making it an easy option even on the go. For example, some people with a painful abdomen or back might use a wearable heating pad on and off throughout the day while working.
There are multiple types of heating pads, including ones you can wear (such as around your waist), plug-ins, and microwaveable ones. You typically should not use it for more than 15 to 20 minutes each time for efficacy and to avoid burns. Only use a heating pad if it is something your doctor recommends for your specific healthcare condition to ensure it does good instead of harm.
Ice packs
An ice pack can help limit inflammation and swelling while numbing the area you have it and reducing pain. Like with a heating pad, you only want to use an ice pack for up to 15 to 20 minutes during each event.
You should also only use it as directed by your doctor so you do not exacerbate any injury. An ice pack is typically best for new injuries and only for approximately 48 to 72 hours afterward. Alternative a heating pad and ice packs to receive the most significant benefit.
Exercise
Exercise can have many benefits regarding easing pain, especially chronic pain, such as for those with arthritis. Low-impact exercises like yoga, walking outside through beautiful scenery, casual bike rides, water aerobics, and swimming are budget-friendly and valuable options.
Your doctor can recommend exercises that can assist with reducing your particular type of pain without worsening your condition. However, it is crucial to start slowly and limit the time you exercise while gradually building up (if you so choose and recommended by your doctor) so you do not overdo it. As tempting as it may be to go from 0 to 60 right away to rush to rid yourself of much of the pain, pushing yourself could worsen the discomfort and/or cause additional issues.
Final Words
There is no doubt that surgery can help many people, but it is not and should not be the immediate go-to all the time. Every doctor should consider each patient and their specific health and body condition. Many pain doctor-recommended non-surgical solutions could be incredibly beneficial for easing pain for many individuals willing to try and follow explicit instructions. Doing so may reduce pain sooner rather than later, especially when the individual is committed to a suggested schedule.
