It is no exaggeration to say that many of us live in an overmedicated world and that is especially true of those coping with chronic pain. Medicine – even the best, most advanced medicine prescribed and taken responsibly – has limitations and potential side effects.
So what other tools are in the toolbox of everyday Canadians living with chronic pain who simply want to get back to doing the things they love?
Many studies have found that exercise and physical activity, once thought to be anathema to those with compromised mobility, can actually enhance movement. Research undertaken by the US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health yielded promising if somewhat mixed results.
On the issue of pain severity for example, “Several reviews noted favorable results from exercise: only three reviews reported pain severity found no statistically significant changes in usual or mean pain from any intervention. However, results were inconsistent across interventions and follow-up, as exercise did not consistently bring about a change (positive or negative) in self-reported pain scores at any single point. “
Anecdotal evidence of pain relief through certain types of movement is well-known to yoga practitioners who invariably encounter fellow students who swear by yoga’s positive effects on things like lower back pain and fibromyalgia.
In addition, the calming vibe of yoga studios and the practice’s emphasis on controlled, calm breath helps defuse stress. As someone suffering from minor arthritis, I can personally attest to the healing power of hot yoga, where asanas are performed in a room heated to about 100˚F. The heat makes sore joints feel softer and more relaxed while making overall movement easier, even for the decidedly non-limber!
There is evidence to suggest that natural supplements can combat a range of pain issues. WebMD notes that many readily available digestibles such as turmeric and Devil’s claw root can help with inflammation and general discomfort for those coping with back and joint pain.
And let’s not forget the calming presence of Fluffy and Fido. Notes Steven Richeimer, MD on the blog Spineuniverse, animals make us feel better without medication.
“Science has shown that having an improved mood literally dulls your pain reducing the need for pain medications. Aside from companionship, pets provide opportunities for socializing with others—online via popular chat groups such as Facebook for cat lovers and offline at dog parks or when walking through the neighborhood.”
Dr. Richeimer adds that “The American Academy of Family Physicians reported that nonpharmacological therapies, such as animal-assisted therapy, are a vital part of current chronic pain management plans.”
Back on Track, with products featuring Welltex — a functional fabric blending ancient Chinese healing knowledge with high-tech fabric innovation and one of the first therapeutic fabrics created through the fusion of ceramic minerals with fabric thread — can also help.
Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. Whether the result of an injury (such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage) or just use over time, even the smallest amount of knee discomfort can sideline your workouts, athletic activities, and daily mobility. The best-selling Back on Track Knee Brace is comprised of a Polyester/Welltex infusion which provides mild compression, piping for basic support, and works with your body to stimulate circulation. Many find that Welltex benefits them by providing soothing comfort and assistance with pain relief and inflammation.
The Back on Track Wrist Support Brace is a key product for recovery/pain management. Repetitive motion injuries are tissue injuries that occur because of repeated motions, and are among the most common physical grievances. Everyday actions such as working at a computer or throwing a ball can lead to tissue damage. Repetitive motion injuries make up more than half of all athletic-related injuries seen by doctors and result in huge workplace losses as well as compromising daily activities. Our exclusive Welltex products support the body in stimulating circulation through FAR Infrared Therapy, which helps alleviate pain, hasten recovery and manage chronic symptoms.
And then there are legs, which are very complex things indeed. A high-functioning combination of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, nerves and skin — plus a number of different structures and tissue types — legs are vulnerable to a wide variety of conditions. These include (but are not limited to) injury, chronic disease and inflammation leading to symptoms such as weakness, numbness or a tingling sensation alongside general leg pain. Back on Track Long Johns and Leggings are a daily defense against leg ailments.
Taking together, supplements, gentle exercise (approved by your doctor, of course), reduced stress and functional fabric products such as those made by Back on Track can help bring chronic pain under non-pharmacological control so that promised activities like cycling, walking, and playing aren’t distant memories. And hey, Back on Track has items suitable for Fido, too.
Thanks for reading our blog. We invite you to share your thoughts and check back in with us soon.
