Chronic pain, or pain that accompanies an injury, is usually addressed with medicinal pain killers. However, long-term drug use poses a risk of side effects, including dependency. If you'd prefer to avoid those risks, there are safe and proven natural alternatives that can provide pain relief, at least temporarily. You can address back pain, joint pain or discomfort from muscle strains with any of these techniques, which are simple and convenient enough to use as home treatments.
Rest
Doctors at the University of Maryland (UM) Medical Center note that rest provides immediate pain relief, especially for weight-bearing muscles and joints. Long rest periods release stress and allow the body to heal naturally. Even short rest breaks provide mini-vacations for tired muscles and bones. As a work or home treatment, simple rest is a viable nonmedicinal remedy for ankle, knee and back pain.
Support
Non-weight-bearing areas may gain pain relief from support wraps or braces. Immobilizing an injured extremity can remove much of the cause of discomfort, such as bone rubbing against bone, as in osteoarthritis, or overstretching a pulled muscle. University of Maryland experts consider Ace bandages effective support, as are semi-rigid Velcro wraps designed for wrists, elbows and other local areas. If you have leg or back pain and you must get around, support yourself with a cane or crutch as well until you have adequately healed.
Heat
To immediately ease joint or back pain, a hot compress is an effective home treatment. Researchers at the American Pain Society report that patients rate hot and cold therapy higher than pain killers for consistent relief. A hot water bottle or microwaveable gel pack can be applied directly to the affected muscle or joint for 20 minutes or longer. Don't use heat, however, during the first 48 hours after a serious muscle strain.
Ice
If you suffer from osteoarthritis, alternating heat and ice applications may bring greater pain relief. Cold packs alone are also appropriate for recent muscle injuries, according to the National Institutes of Health. Keep a gel pack in the refrigerator; if you don't like the sensation of ice, a chilled pack is more comfortable and still effective. Apply cold compresses for 20 minutes or less, repeating as needed. This home treatment can accompany you on the road, too.
Exercise
Conditions of chronic and acute pain will both require exercise for rehabilitation. The right exercises also prevent future injuries and initiate pain relief. Using sore muscles that have begun to heal makes them more flexible. Professionals at the American Chiropractic Association say that the key is to begin with short exercise sessions and gradually work your way up. Ask your doctor for stretches specific to your affected muscle groups. Swimming and walking are good all-around exercises that you can keep up as you grow stronger.
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