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 may help yourself heal from discomfort 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 Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy today!
How can I improve my energy levels and experience less discomfort?
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.
- 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. Taking two or three deep breaths and slowly releasing them through your nose is an easy technique.
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.
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.
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 your physical therapy treatments!
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:
- Aquatic therapy. Water can stimulate nerves and provide resistance for exercise and strength training. It allows for easier movement, which can ease the stress on your body.
- Ultrasound. Ultrasound produces sound waves that can assist in blocking pain signals to the brain.
- Ice and heat therapies. Heat works to warm the muscles and tendons, making movement easier and less painful. Ice works to reduce inflammation, also providing soothing pain relief.
- Massage therapy. A physical therapist is highly educated on painful areas of the body. Through massage, he or she can manipulate your painful muscles and joints, thus reducing inflammation and providing relief.
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 a chronic condition, it’s a good idea to let our clinic know so that we can assist you with getting back up on your feet iwth the least amount of discomfort.
To get more help, don’t hesitate to contact our office today. We’ll help you achieve your physical goals so you can live the life you want!
