Among the many different types of natural pain management are hypnotherapy, meditation, acupuncture, deep breathing exercises and natural dietary supplements. Music therapy and guided imagery are also deemed to be useful for pain treatment. Chiropractic adjustments and restful sleep are also sometimes recommended for use as natural pain management.
Researchers specializing in pain management, also known as algiatry, have found that the mind/body connection, and the perception of pain between the two, greatly contributes to the actual experience of pain. While pain medicine is often prescribed for pain, patients experiencing chronic pain often benefit from disciplining the mind in such a way as to minimize pain. This type of natural pain management is often accomplished through hypnotherapy and guided imagery. Many report a better quality of life in using a natural pain treatment for long-term pain.
Natural pain management is often useful in treating acute pain, such as that which is associated with childbirth and minor injuries. Along with medical treatment, individuals may also rely on guided imagery, deep breathing exercises and music therapy to reduce the perception of pain. Lamaze coaches even assist with breathing exercises and guided imagery during the birthing process as a way to control and minimize pain.
Medical practitioners will often recommend natural pain management for patients with adverse side effects to other pain medications, such as nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Learning certain energy therapies, such as Reiki, and engaging in natural pain management techniques like acupuncture are often helpful ways of reducing pain for those who do not tolerate medications well. Additionally, techniques like meditation, hypnotism and guided imagery help relieve stress and anxiety that are often associated with certain medical conditions.
Pain often interrupts normal sleeping patterns. A lack of sound rest, however, may also exacerbate the perception of pain. In an effort to help patients manage pain, doctors sometimes recommend treatments to increase restful sleep.
Dietary changes and supplements may also be an effective source of natural pain management for some people. For instance, foods high in antioxidants are believed to help relieve menstrual pain. Foods with anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as the Omega-3 fatty acids found in certain types of fish, are also believed to be helpful as natural sources for pain management for conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Nutritionists and natural health practitioners often recommend a diet rich in these foods for natural pain management or may advise patients to try taking supplements in order to access the benefits of these ingredients.