When it comes to health care, the range of options available can make decisions concerning your health overwhelming. If you suffer from chronic pain, the choices can be even more daunting, particularly when reaching for the pill bottle is not a desirable option. Fortunately, there are a variety of alternative options available that could prove beneficial in reducing the symptoms of your illness. While these methods may be beneficial, it is important to note that you should always check with your doctor before stopping any medications or starting any new exercise program or natural remedies.

• Acupuncture

Considered a form of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has long been used as a remedy for pain as well as a variety of other ailments, including the sickness associated with chemotherapy. While acupuncture is generally recognized as the practice of inserting tiny needles in specific points in the body, there is no need to avoid treatment if you are one of the approximately 20% of the population who suffer from a fear of needles. There are alternate forms of treatment that do not involve needles, including acupressure.

• Exercise

While it may seem counter-intuitive when you're in pain, exercise is an excellent way to boost your overall health. Likewise, exercise is a stress reducer, a condition which contributes to pain among a wide range of other ailments including skin and heart problems. Light exercise reduces stress, strengthens muscles, and increases flexibility, which in turn reduces pain. There are a number of exercises to consider for easing discomfort. These include – but are not limited to – walking, swimming, and stretching.

• Essential Oils

Essential oils are growing in popularity as a method to treat a variety of ailments ranging from pain to anxiety. There are several methods of applying oils, including massage and inhalation, while a few oils are ingestible. It is important to note that you should never ingest oils without first checking whether or not they can be taken by mouth. Additionally, some oils need to be diluted before contact with the skin. Among the essential oils recommended for pain, wintergreen is reported to contain a natural ingredient similar to aspirin. Additional oils recommended for easing pain include lavender and chamomile, among many others.

While traditional medicine may seem the most obvious route toward controlling chronic pain, alternative medicines can prove to be an effective supplement. With your doctor's consent, and a working plan, you can take control of your chronic pain naturally. Contact a clinic like Pain Treatment Center for more information.