Pain Relief - Pain Management

DO give injured areas special treatment. Stretching is usually a good strategy. It is important to stretch gently, consistently and often. Once the muscle is well on its way to healing, light strength exercises can be added.

DO spend a few minutes focusing on the sore area. Is the area larger than when you first injured it? Is it hurting on the opposite side? If so, look for a quarter-sized area at the core of the pain. While in a comfortable position, consciously relax the muscles around it. Throughout the day continue to re-program yourself by relaxing the surrounding muscles. And of course, be gentle with the injured area.

DO eat selectively, get plenty of exercise and spend time in the elements, in nature.

For example:

• A mucus-free diet helps your body to whisk away painful build-up in joints and muscles.
• Walks in the brisk air of winter build endurance and strength that will help prevent injuries.

DO find alternatives to using ice packs or adding cold to the body. In inexperienced hands, they can do more harm than good. Consider using a homeopathic ointment, like Traumeel, to cool inflammation.

DO drink plenty of water. It is critical to healing. Drinking teas and even juices is okay, but water is king. The rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces.

DO seek professional help, when needed. Consider complementary and alternative medicine. For example, an acupuncturist can assist your body to drain the heat, remove the obstruction and nourish the area. Check your local directory, http://???. Lastly, decide if you really want the pain to go away. Can you make a commitment to do whatever it takes to heal?

Back Sense by Ronald D. Siegel and Michael H. Urdang

A Meditation to Help Ease Pain by Belleruth Naparstek

Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine

The Natural Healer’s Acupressure Handbook by Michael Blate

Acu-Yoga by Michel Reed Gach

Stretching by Bob Anderson