Chronic pain is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be debilitating. It can make it difficult for individuals to perform their daily activities, and it can impact their quality of life significantly. Naturopathy is a form of alternative medicine that emphasizes the use of natural remedies and lifestyle changes to downregulate pain receptors and support those with chronic pain.
Naturopathy can be an effective way to support chronic pain management. When combined with conventional treatment, it can help to reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.
As a Naturopath I treat a lot of people that experience chronic pain due to endometriosis, arthritis and injury. Here are three lifestyle tips and three herbs that can support chronic pain management:
Lifestyle Tips:
- Exercise: Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health, but it can also be an effective way to manage chronic pain. Exercise helps to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, which can help to reduce pain and stiffness. It also releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. Gentle activities such as yoga, walking, and swimming can be a great way to start, and it’s important to find an activity that is enjoyable and sustainable. Ensure to seek guidance from a trained physical therapist before embarking on new movement routines.
- Diet: A healthy diet can play a significant role in managing chronic pain. Processed foods and sugar can cause inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate pain. On the other hand, whole foods, fruits, and vegetables contain anti-inflammatory nutrients that can help to reduce pain levels. Adding healthy fats such as avocado, oil fish, nuts, and seeds can also be helpful, as they provide essential nutrients that support brain function and can help to reduce pain. Nutrients can also be prescribed by your naturopath to reduce pain such as PEA or Magnesium.
- Stress Management: Chronic pain can be stressful, and stress can exacerbate pain. Finding ways to manage stress can help to reduce pain levels and improve overall health. Meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness practices can all be effective ways to manage stress. Additionally, getting enough sleep and practicing good sleep hygiene can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
Herbs used to support chronic pain:
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It contains a potent anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin, which has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. Adding high dose turmeric into your supplement routine can be an effective way to support chronic pain management.
- Ginger: Ginger is another spice that has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. It contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Drinking ginger tea or adding ginger to meals can be an effective way to reduce pain levels.
- Devil’s Claw: Devil’s Claw is a herb that is native to South Africa. It contains compounds called iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Devil’s Claw supplements or teas can be effective in reducing pain levels, particularly in individuals with osteoarthritis.
In conclusion, Naturopathy can be an effective way to support chronic pain management. By incorporating lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques, individuals can reduce pain levels and improve overall well-being. Additionally, incorporating herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and devil’s claw can provide natural pain relief without the harsh side effects associated with conventional pain medications.
Clinical Naturopath – Amelia, is now offering a 3 month Pain Management Plan. This plan includes:
- 1 Initial Consultation – 1 hour
- 2 x follow up appointments – 45mins
- 3 x individualised treatment plans with nutritional advice, lifestyle support and pain management techniques
- Free access to your Naturopath 24/7 over the 3 month period
- 3x individualised pain specific scripts with the inclusion of herbal medicine and nutraceuticals that are specifically tailored to meet your needs (**supplement cost not included in this package**)
This package is for those who have ongoing chronic pain or injuries who experience musculoskeletal stiffness, joint swelling or pain, and who may need some nutritional support to reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall quality of life and energy levels. Conditions that can be supported by this management plan include:
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Endometriosis
- Post-natal
- Musculoskeletal injuries
This package is normally valued at $600, but is now available for Impulse Chiropractic patients for $400.
It’s important to work with a qualified Naturopathic doctor to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets individual needs and supports long-term health. To learn more about what a Clinical Naturopath can do for your health and wellbeing visit www.ameliabotanica.com or book online with Amelia below.
Amelia Hetherington – Clinical Naturopath
