Natural Methods for Treating Pain after Opiate Addiction
If you are considering addiction treatment for an opiate addiction but the threat of chronic pain is stopping you, there are remedies for chronic pain that can help. According to the National Library of Medicine, over 100 million people in the United States suffer from persistent pain. Chronic or persistent pain keeps many people dependent on dangerous opiates. These opiates allow them to function without pain, which is a very powerful motivator not to seek treatment. Fortunately, there are alternatives for treating pain after opiate addiction treatment.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are a natural alternative. It is important to note that many herbal remedies can be addictive themselves. Consult your doctor before switching from an opiate medication to a herbal medication. Most doctors are familiar with these herbal remedies that treat chronic pain.
Willow bark
Also known as witch’s aspirin, willow bark is similar in nature to aspirin because it is an anti-inflammatory and can reduce fever. Ancient people used willow bark as a pain reliever for thousands of years. It is available from many herbal retailers.
Kava Kava
Although kava kava is an excellent painkiller and relieves anxiety, it is one that should be used with caution. It is known to produce a feeling of wellbeing and relaxation when consumed as a tea. It is available in many health food stores and drug stores.
Valerian
Valerian root is another ancient herb that people have used for centuries to reduce pain and relieve anxiety. It is available in most drug stores, grocery stores, and health food stores.
Devil’s Claw
This African herb is proven to relieve pain and act as an anti-inflammatory in many countries. It does take up to 10 days to start to relieve pain but once it begins to take effect, most people compare it to many of the arthritis medications on the market today.
Stimulation Therapy
Although there are many forms of stimulation therapy the most common is electro-stimulation. A TENS unit is a unit that delivers a small electric shock to stimulate the nerves. Although this seems counterproductive, it blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain by using the peripheral nervous system.
Hypnosis
Hypnotic therapy is gaining ground in the medical community. For most of history, it’s been regarded poorly, but recent studies show that it can be effective for treating chronic pain as well as many other conditions. Like many treatments it does not work on all people all of the time. It takes an excellent therapist as well as someone who is practiced in hypnosis.
Massage and Chiropractic
Both massage and chiropractics work together to relieve chronic pain. These two treatments are now being covered by some insurance companies. Massage loosens the muscles while chiropractic help to realign the spine and other joints. Although they are not a permanent solution, both are considered treatments for chronic back pain.
If you suffer from chronic pain and are afraid to stop your opiate addiction because of it, there is help available. For more information about leaving opiates behind or to find a treatment center that will help you find a natural way to relieve your chronic pain, call us at 888-959-0638.