Alternative medicine choices are effective for controlling pain. These methods help to control everything from headaches to osteoarthritis joint pain and more. There are a wide variety of alternative medicine options including:

Acupuncture

Based in 16th century Chinese tradition, acupuncture is the art of inserting disposable needles into one of the body's 14 energy channels or meridians. By stimulating the involved nerve, the central nervous system begins to release endorphins (a chemical released by your body during pain and stress). Endorphins block the pain message to the brain.   

Chiropractic Treatment

Spine and neck manipulation is especially effective in treating back and neck pain. It is done under the care of a licensed chiropractor.  

Massage

Massage therapy increases blood flow to the treated area. It is effective in relieving back pain and offers the added bonus of stress reduction. 

Dietary Choices

Studies show that eating a diet low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables helps with the body's anti-inflammatory process. In addition to pain reduction, weight loss is a by-product of this diet regime.       

Nutritional Supplements

Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate are nutritional supplements that that are effective in controlling pain associated with osteoarthritis of the knee. They also increase joint mobility. Check with your primary care physician before beginning any supplement program.

Mind-Body Therapy

Meditation, hypnosis, guided imagery, biofeedback and various relaxation techniques are mind-body therapy options to help control pain. These alternative care choices are intended to help the mind effectively deal with painful symptoms that the body is experiencing.

Psychological Therapy and Counseling

Stress can intensify pain. Talk therapy, under the care of a psychologist or psychiatrist, is an effective method of counseling to deal with stress.