Some people are not choosy about what type of treatment they take when experiencing pain, thinking only of finding relief. Others prefer natural supplements or alternative remedies, while some choose conventional medicines. Being in pain is never enjoyable, and whatever form of treatment you prefer, there are remedies available that can bring relief. Regardless of what type of medicine you choose, check with your health-care practitioner to become aware of any limitations or side effects the treatment may have.
Medications
Various over-the-counter medicines are available for relieving pain and inflammation from injuries, sore muscles, headaches and fever. According to a study reported in May 2000 in the journal "Clinical Therapeutics," drugs like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen relieve pain by inhibiting prostaglandins. However, they don't all work in the same way. They are available in both brand name medicines and generic labels. These drugs are all meant to reduce inflammation, fevers and pain, swelling and bruising from injuries and to relieve headaches or back pain. If your ailment calls for something stronger, your doctor will provide you with a prescription for the medication. Each of these medicines can produce side effects, some being quite serious. In many cases, all of the over-the-counter medicines can produce stomach and liver problems, and some can trigger allergies and asthma. If you need to take a medicine for more than one or two doses, consult your health practitioner to check to make sure it is the right medicine for your condition.
Supplements
Depending on the problem, you may need to take a supplement to reduce inflammation and pain. In the case of musculoskeletal pain, arthritis and gout, supplements like bromelain and turmeric are reputed to relieve stiffness, aches and pains and inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Bromelain is an enzyme from pineapples, and turmeric is an Indian spice often used in curries. Anecdotal evidence and scientific research indicates that both supplements may offer relief, especially when taken together. Various herbs are known to help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with a headache. For example, butterbur or feverfew may relieve a migraine, and lavender and rosemary may relax you enough to allow a tension headache to subside. Bromelain and turmeric both thin the blood. If you use blood-thinning medicines, consult your health practitioner before using either of these supplements. Lavender and rosemary are often administered through aromatherapy and are considered safe as long as you follow directions.
Remedies
Homeopathic remedies are indicated for various ailments and can be used to treat pain and inflammation. Arnica is often given to reduce swelling, bruising and pain from injuries to the muscles, according to homeopath Dr. William Boericke in the book "Materia Medica and Repertory." Bryonia is indicated for severe injuries, especially to the joints, where the slightest motion aggravates the pain. Rhus tox reduces stiffness, swelling and inflammation due to arthritis and other musculoskeletal problems when the sore joint is worse when you first start to move it and then feels better and loosens up after continued movement. Boericke points out that remedies like sepia, lachesis and cimicfuga are helpful for relieving menstrual and other hormonal headaches.
Other Considerations
Homeopathic remedies are available over the counter without a prescription. Supplements, herbs and homeopathic remedies can be purchased at most health-food stores. Sometimes there may be an herbal expert at the store who may be able to advise you and answer general questions about the products. Always buy products from reputable companies and from stores that move their merchandise quickly to ensure potent and fresh products. Because herbs in particular can cause side effects, always check with a health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbal medicines. If you prefer using conventional medicines, ask a pharmacist for more information about the product before purchasing it. If you are ever in doubt about a product or not sure what is the right one for you, contact your health practitioner for a consultation.
References
- Clinical Therapeutics: Over-the-Counter Analgesics and Antipyretics -- A Critical Assessment; Elliot V. Hersh, et al.; May 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Turmeric
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bromelain
- "Materia Medica and Repertory"; William Boericke, MD; 1998
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon, MS, and Sifu Teresa Graedon; 2002
