Pain-relief medications can be a lifesaver, but for people recovering from opioid addiction, they can derail your addiction recovery and even prompt a relapse. If you’re experiencing pain and need to avoid drugs, then it’s worthwhile to explore the following drug-free pain relief techniques.
Pain Relief Techniques:
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice of placing tiny sterile needs along meridians — also called energy points — on the body. Many people swear by acupuncture’s healing, pain relief qualities. The National Institute of Health’s Consensus Development Program, which assesses the quality of various health technologies, lists acupuncture for a wide range of painful conditions including fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis.
Massage
If the thought of having someone stick needles into you turns your stomach, consider massage. Swedish or European massage uses gentle pressure on the muscles to relieve pain and tension. Other forms of massage include heat, pressure and essential oils to reduce pain, inflammation and tension.
Physical Therapy
For pain related to muscles, joints and tendons, physical therapy offers a drug-free way to reduce discomfort. A qualified physical therapist can assess your pain points and medical diagnosis to create an exercise or treatment plan. Your customized treatment plan can help you strengthen supporting muscles to reduce pain.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
This is a simple, hands-on approach to pain management. You simply learn to tap specific points on your body that correspond to pain-relief points. EFT can release negative emotions, anxiety and pain. It’s simple, harmless and drug-free, and you can learn how to do it at home.
Aromatherapy
Certain scents have the power to uplift mood and relieve pain. Aromatherapy uses essential oils for pain relief and mood enhancement. Peppermint oil, for example, can relieve headache pain, and lavender essential oil is good for relieving tension. Only apply essential oils to the skin in diluted form, and never ingest them. Follow package directions to learn how to use them safely.
Heat and Ice Packs
Heat and ice packs are time-honored methods of treating pain from strains, sprains, headaches, bruises, menstrual cramps and other painful conditions. Heat patches or heating pads can safely apply heat to the affected area. You can make ice packs at home by wrapping ice cubes in a cotton dish towel and applying it to the painful area.
There are many ways you can relieve pain without turning to drugs or medication. If you have any questions about these or other pain-relief methods, talk to your doctor.
Contact JourneyPure Emerald Coast for more information about treatment for addiction. We’re here to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
