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Chronic Pain & Holistic Remedies

Chronic pain is classified as any pain that exists for more than the natural expected healing time period or for longer than six months. Roughly fifty million people live their lives in chronic pain- that is actually 35% of the total population. Though chronic pain is more apparent in women, men are not immune to chronic pain. There are well over fifty medical conditions that are linked to chronic pain. These medical conditions may involve various systems in the body, including, but not limited to: musculoskeletal, reproductive, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neurological and urological. More than one bodily system may be a contributor to chronic pain.

Physicians have found that a variety of methods to effectively manage chronic pain. In fact, each symptom is usually addressed individually to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Often, several different types of medical specialists may be involved in the treatment plan for chronic pain. It is not uncommon for holistic therapies to be included in the treatment plan. Two such medical conditions that cause chronic pain are Fibromyalgia and Arthritis.  Let’s take a closer look at these two conditions to see a sampling of holistic treatment plans for pain and related symptoms.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects up to 6 million people in the U.S. The nature of fibromyalgia is not fully understood. Though, researchers suggest that it is a condition of the central nervous system. The condition is characterized by tender trigger points in muscles that may affect the neck, shoulders, elbows, lower back, hips and legs. The condition may be associated with other medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.  People with fibromyalgia may also suffer from sleeplessness, chronic fatigue, headaches, depression and memory or concentration issues.    The traditional treatment plan for fibromyalgia may include: physical therapy, nutrition and diet therapy, exercise therapy and water exercise therapy. The holistic approach examines each symptom and develops a therapy plan for each symptom. Learn more about Fibromyalgia Symptoms and Holistic Therapies.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, affects close to 27 million people in the U.S.  The condition commonly affects women over 40. The cause of osteoarthritis is not known. However, osteoarthritis has been linked to obesity, sedentary lifestyle, nerve injury and joint injury. The disease is characterized by the disintegration of the joint’s cartilage, resulting in chronic pain, limited mobility and stiffness. Similar symptoms are associated with other forms of  arthritis. Learn more about  Arthritis Symptoms and Therapies.

There may be many forms of holistic therapies that can go into a chronic pain treatment plan. It is important to note that treatment plans for chronic pain are highly individualized. The remedies outlined in this article and in the links are not meant to diagnose or treat fibromyalgia, arthritis or any other medical condition. The sampling of holistic remedies let’s us know that there are a wealth of possibilities available to help manage chronic pain.

It is important to check in with your physician for their recommendations and  let your physician know if you plan to take any over-the- counter drugs or supplements before you take them. Some over-the-counter drugs and supplements can adversely interact with other medications that you are taking.

It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition.