If you live with pain, you know how limiting it can be. Fortunately, there are some simple lifestyle changes you can make in order to decrease your pain while simultaneously increasing your energy. When you do these in addition to your physical therapy treatments, you can help recover from your pain and reach the physical goals you’ve been aiming towards.
To find out more about how we can help you increase your energy and decrease your pain, contact Nebraska Orthopaedic today!
1. Eat the right foods.
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:
- 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.
- Salmon. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which help to relieve neck, back, and joint pain.
- 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.
- Cherries. Cherries increase antioxidants, which can relieve pain and inflammation.
2. Sleep, sleep, sleep.
Did you know that approximately ⅓ of your life is spent sleeping? Because of this, it is important to make sure that your mattress is right for you. The mattress you sleep on can affect the way your body feels when it’s awake. Since everyone sleeps differently, it is recommended that you choose a mattress according to your sleep style:
- Firm mattress. If you sleep on your back, a medium-to-firm mattress will help with those backaches.
- Soft mattress. Side sleepers generally benefit from a softer mattress, as it is easier on their sides.
- 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.
3. Get that endorphin boost.
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. Win/win!
4. Practice stress relief techniques.
While we are aware of the mental toll that stress can take on us, it can also exaggerate physical pain as well. Because of this, it is important to keep some stress-relieving techniques at the back of your mind for when you need them.
A warm bath is a great way to simultaneously relieve stress and soothe any aching muscles or joints. Breathing techniques can also help you relax by calming your mind and body. A simple way to do this is to take in two or three deep breaths, releasing them slowly through your nose every time.
5. Consult with a physical therapist!
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 includes:
- 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.
- Ultrasound. Ultrasound produces sound waves that can assist in blocking pain signals to the brain.
- 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.
- 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.
By implementing some of these tips into your daily life, you should notice a boost in energy, as well as a decrease in pain. 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!
