Opioids is an umbrella term which refers to the drugs which bind to the group of receptors in our nervous system named opioid receptors. These include opium, morphine, and codeine. Some people overuse these drugs and become addicted to them. Those heavily addicted may need to consider rehab.
If you have been prescribed opioids to help with your chronic pain, then you will need an alternative to help if you are trying to refrain from taking these drugs. The following options may help if you do it alone, or combine some of the options.
How can I relieve pain without my opioids?
Using cold and heat. A cold compress can work just after you have injured yourself, it can lower inflammation and any muscle spasms, and speed up the recovery process. Using heat can increase your pain tolerance and relax tight muscles.
Exercise. Keeping yourself active, despite experiencing pain can really help with common pains such as backache, arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Losing weight. Shifting a few extra pounds can help to relieve weight - only if you are overweight in the first place.
Physical or occupational therapy. Physical therapy will help by restoring or aiding your ability to move around and walk. Occupational therapy will help improve how you perform daily activities such as bathing, eating, and dressing.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This is where an extremely mild electrical current is used to block any pain signals heading to the brain from the body.
Iontophoresis. This type of electrical stimulation can be used to drive your medications towards areas of pain and reduce any inflammation.
Cold laser therapy. Cold laser therapy is also known as low-level laser therapy and is used to treat some pain conditions. A cold laser points pure light on a singular wavelength which is absorbed into the injured part of the body where it stimulates the tissue repair.
Mind-body techniques. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and hypnosis are commonly used at treatment centres and hospitals to help with the pain.
Yoga and tai chi. These low impact exercises incorporate multiple mind-body techniques like breathing control and meditation whilst also strengthening and stretching out your muscles. It is very effective in helping with chronic pain including headaches, lower back pain, and arthritis.
Chiropractic. A visit to a chiropractor can help to correct the alignment of your body, which works to relieve pain and improve the body’s function.
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