6 ways to manage chronic pain at home

Chronic pain is very complex to deal with, each individual reacts differently to pain relief techniques. It can take a while for a person to find the best pain relief technique for their body.

Whether it is chronic low back pain, knee pain or severe headaches that just won't go, chronic pain can last for more than 12 weeks (3 months). Pain killer medications are not the only solution, there are other alternatives easily available in the comfort of your own home.

1. Hot Pack

Hot packs are special heating pads especially engineered to produce maximum heat at a particular region of the body

A hot pack can help you relieve the tension built in the muscles by improving blood circulation and refilling nutrients in that region

In what situation.

2. Cold Pack

A technique of lowering the body temperature is by using an external instrument such as wrapping a sheet soaked in crushed ice or by directly applying ice gel packs.

A cold pack can help you relieve pain built in the muscles by numbing the affected region and reducing inflammation.

3. Physical therapy:

Physical therapy is the science of stretching and strengthening the imbalanced muscles to relieve and prevent pain. It can also improve overall muscle functioning, which reduces strain and the risk of injury in the long run.

4. Massage/ soft tissue manipulation -

Massaging has various benefits and can be used along with physical therapy or medications.

5. Pain Medication

Different types of medication such as pain killers can help manage long-term pain. They can get you back to your daily routines, and make you more active again.

Note: keep in mind the side effects of drug therapy.

There are multiple options for reducing pain through medication

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

• Paracetamols.

• Opioids.

• Beta-blockers.

• Antidepressants.

• Cannabis.

Note: Always consult your GP for accurate and effective drug therapy.

6. Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy can help in many ways that include reducing pain, repairing tissues and strengthening muscles. It works by applying electric signals directly over the pain area. This blocks the transmission of pain signals in your body, reducing the pain in that particular area.

Other additional ways to manage pain may include-

• Tai chi.

• Acupuncture.

• Yoga.

• Cognitive behavioural therapy.

• Relaxation techniques (breath controlled).

Physica is built on the same principles of managing chronic pain at the comfort of your home. Enrol in a program to learn more about how to manage your pain at home.