5 Tips For Increasing Energy and Decreasing Chronic Pain
You know how limiting pain can be if you live with it. Fortunately, you can reduce your discomfort while also raising your energy levels by making a few simple lifestyle modifications. When you combine these exercises with your physical therapy treatments, you will help yourself heal and achieve the physical goals you’ve set for yourself.
To find out more about how we can help you increase your energy and decrease your pain, contact Elliott Physical Therapy in Dorchester, Milton, Mansfield, Hingham, Hanover, North Attleboro, South Easton, or Needham, MA today!
How can I improve my energy levels and experience less chronic pain?
1. Practice a nutritional diet.
The food you eat is what fuels you throughout the day. Certain foods can provide you with more energy, in addition to relieving the pain you feel. A few of these include:
- Cherries. Cherries increase antioxidants, which can relieve pain and inflammation.
- Ginger. The ginger plant has been known to relieve pain from migraines, as well as muscle aches and nausea. It is typically used as a spice and can be easily sprinkled into a meal.
- Turmeric. Turmeric’s main active component, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory properties making it a potential treatment for a number of health conditions, including pain, asthma and decreased movement in people with osteoarthritis. It’s also easy to incorporate into meals, smoothies and even baked goods.
- Hot peppers. This spicy treat has been known to relieve arthritis pain. Even if you aren’t a fan of the spice, a serving as small as half a teaspoon could help bring some relief.
- Salmon. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which help to relieve neck, back, and joint pain.
2. Relieve your stress.
While we are all aware of the psychological effects of stress, it can also increase physical pain. As a result, it’s critical to carry some stress-relieving tactics in your back pocket for when you need them.
A warm bath is an excellent technique to relieve tension while also soothing sore muscles and joints. Breathing exercises can also aid relaxation by soothing the mind and body. An easy technique involves taking two or three deep breaths in through your nose and then slowly releasing them our through your mouth.
3. Get a good night’s sleep.
Did you realize that you spend around a third of your life sleeping? As a result, it’s critical to make sure your mattress is the correct fit for you. Your sleeping mattress might have an impact on how your body feels when you’re awake. Because everyone sleeps differently, it’s best to pick a mattress that matches your sleeping style:
- Soft mattress. Side sleepers generally benefit from a softer mattress, as it is easier on their sides.
- Firm mattress. If you sleep on your back, a medium-to-firm mattress will help with those backaches.
- Memory foam. If you toss and turn all night, or if you switch positions repeatedly, you may want to try out memory foam. It may help you stay in one place, as it forms to the shape of your body.
It’s also helpful to use pillows to support key areas of your body while you sleep. Visit our social media page and check out a post we shared on the best sleeping positions for a good night’s sleep!
4. Boost your endorphins.
When you exercise, your body releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers. It may seem difficult to exercise when you are experiencing aches and pains, but even light movement can provide much-needed relief. The activity also doesn’t have to take a lot of time, just a few short 15 minute walks throughout the day can have positive results.
You can also boost your endorphins by sniffing a soothing lavender scent, listening to your favorite music, or even eating chocolate. All around it’s a win/win!
5. Come in for physical therapy treatment!
At our practice, we have several treatment methods that can help alleviate your pain and increase your energy. We will find where your pain is originating so we can address it at the root, providing you with long-lasting relief. Some common methods we employ for pain relief include:
- Ice and heat therapies. Heat works to warm the muscles and tendons, making movement easier and less painful. Ice works to reduce swelling and inflammation, also providing soothing pain relief.
- Manual therapy. A physical therapist is highly educated on painful areas of the body. Through manual treatment, he or she can manipulate your painful muscles and joints, thus reducing inflammation and providing relief.
- Dry needling. This technique helps reduce pain, muscle tension and works to improve mobility.
Call our clinic today to schedule an appointment!
By implementing some of these tips into your daily life, you should notice a boost in energy, as well as a decrease in pain. If you’re living with chronic pain, reach out to us so that we can help you get back to the activities you enjoy most!