Editor: What To Know
- Apply the heat to the area of your body that is in pain for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Apply the cold to the area of your body that is in pain for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- To give yourself a massage, use your hands to apply pressure to the areas of your body that are in pain.
Non Surgical Procedures
Pain is a sensation that we feel when our body is injured or damaged in some way. It can be sharp, dull, throbbing, or achy. It can be short-lived or long-lasting. Pain can be mild or severe. Its intensity can vary from person to person. Here are 6 nonsurgical procedures that can alleviate pain in the body.
1. Chirotherapy
Chirotherapy is a type of physical therapy that uses chiropractic adjustments and manipulation to relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Be sure to get chirotherapy from someone with expertise in chiropractic care as it can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Additionally, side effects from chirotherapy can include temporary pain and discomfort at the site of the adjustment. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to tell your chiropractor before getting chirotherapy. This will help them determine if chirotherapy is safe for you. Its important to always consult with your doctor before beginning any new pain relief treatment.
2. Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses touch to relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Massage therapy can be done by a licensed massage therapist or you can give yourself a massage. To give yourself a massage, use your hands to apply pressure to the areas of your body that are in pain. You can also use a massage ball or other device to help reach difficult-to-reach areas. Be sure to drink plenty of water after a massage as it can help flush out toxins from your body. Side effects from massage therapy can include temporary pain and discomfort at the site of the massage. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to tell your massage therapist before getting a massage.
3. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that uses thin needles to relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Acupuncture is usually done by a licensed acupuncturist. The number of needles and the placement of the needles will depend on the condition being treated. Side effects from acupuncture can include temporary pain and discomfort at the site of the needle insertion. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to tell your acupuncturist before getting acupuncture
4. Heat Therapy
Heat therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses heat to relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Heat therapy can be done with a heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm compress. Apply the heat to the area of your body that is in pain for 15-20 minutes at a time. Be sure not to use heat therapy on an open wound or if you have diabetes as it can cause further damage. Side effects from heat therapy can include temporary skin redness and irritation. This is usually due to the heat pad being too hot. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor before using heat therapy.
5. Cold Therapy
Cold therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses cold to relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Cold therapy can be done with an ice pack, frozen vegetables, or a cold compress. Apply the cold to the area of your body that is in pain for 15-20 minutes at a time. Be sure not to use cold therapy on an open wound or if you have diabetes as it can cause further damage. Side effects from cold therapy can include temporary skin redness and irritation. It’s also important not to fall asleep with an ice pack as it can cause frostbite. If you have any medical conditions, be sure to check with your doctor before starting cold therapy.
6. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a type of physical therapy that uses electrical stimulation to relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches. TENS is usually done with a TENS unit, which emits electrical pulses that stimulate the nerves. The intensity of the electrical pulse can be adjusted to your tolerance level. Side effects from TENS can include skin irritation at the site of the electrode placement. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to tell your doctor before getting TENS. This is because TENS can cause a worsening of some medical conditions.
Several nonsurgical procedures can alleviate pain in the body. These include massage, acupuncture, heat therapy, cold therapy, and TENS. Each of these modalities can provide relief from pain, but it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment. These non-surgical procedures can provide relief from pain without the need for medication or surgery.
