Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that are used to treat inflammation and pain of different origins. People with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are often told to take these medications to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life. However, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can increase your risk of several health problems and complications. Some of them include heart disease, stomach pain, nausea, headache, and balance problems.
Because of the side effects of NSAIDs, many people are looking for safer alternatives to cope with pain and inflammation. Below are 9 remedies that can help you relieve pain and inflammation with fewer or no adverse effects.
1. Arnica
Arnica is a plant found in Central Europe and North America. This plant is widely used for medical purposes like the treatment of pain, aches, and inflammation. People with conditions like diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, post-shingles neuralgia, and cancer may benefit from its use. Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that rarely causes serious side effects, unless you are allergic. For this reason, before using arnica, make sure you don’t have an allergy.
2. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is a medication used to treat pain that ranges from mild to severe. This medication can also relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis and treat fever. Acetaminophen works by lowering the body’s temperature and changing the way your body feels pain. Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen has a less negative effect on your stomach. But you still need to be careful about the dosage. In high doses, acetaminophen can cause liver damage.
In some cases, acetaminophen may cause allergic reactions like skin rashes or difficulty breathing. If you experience one of these symptoms, be sure to contact your healthcare provider.
3. Curcumin
Curcumin is a chemical derived from the plant called turmeric. This chemical is used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines for different medical purposes. Curcumin is known to reduce inflammation, oxidative damage, and pain. The standard dosage of turmeric for an average person is 400–600 mg three times per day. Curcumin has several side effects that include mild digestive issues, but it is safer than NSAIDs.
It is important to consult your doctor before taking curcumin supplements. Its use can interfere with certain medications like anticoagulants. Besides, the doctor can help you choose the right dosage to prevent complications.
4. Topical NSAIDs
Topical NSAIDs have fewer side effects compared to oral ones. Topical NSAIDs aren’t absorbed by the blood in the same amount as oral. For this reason, people who use topical medications have lower levels of medications in the blood and fewer side effects. Topical NSAIDs are effective for the treatment of muscle and joint pain and localized pain near the surface of the skin. It can help relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Topical NSAIDs are suitable for people who have a previous history of gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic kidney disease, or adverse effects for oral NSAIDs. While topical NSAIDs are poorly absorbed by the blood, it is still very important to follow the doctor’s recommendations about the dosage.
5. Electrical stimulation
Electrical nerve stimulation is a procedure that uses a mild electrical current to treat pain, repair tissues, strengthen muscles, and improve circulation. During the procedure, the practitioner directs mild electrical pulses to the painful area to improve its physical function. While people often think this procedure is painful, most patients find electrical stimulation for pain control relaxing.
This procedure works by blocking the transmission of pain signals to your brain and causing a release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers). This helps relieve pain and improve overall well-being significantly.
6. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that was used to treat different health concerns. During a procedure, the practitioner inserts the small needle in the problematic area and leaves them for between 10-30 minutes. This helps boost blood flow to the targeted area and improve regeneration. It is often used to relieve and treat the pain of different origins in the lower back, neck, knees.
This procedure is generally safe and rarely causes adverse effects. Most complications appear because of inexperienced doctors who perform the procedure. For this reason, it is important to find a qualified practitioner with good reviews.
7. Bromelain
Bromelain is a food supplement that is often used to treat pain and swelling associated with post-surgical recovery or underlying conditions. It is beneficial for people suffering from osteoarthritis, cancer, digestive problems, and muscle soreness. Topical bromelain is good for the treatment of burns and skin injuries. Taking the bromelain on a regular basis causes the body to produce substances that relieve inflammation and swelling.
Bromelain is absolutely safe for most people. In some cases, it may cause mild digestive discomfort in the form of diarrhea or allergic reaction.
8. Topical capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chemical found in chili peppers. Topical remedies with capsaicin work by affecting the nerve cells beneath your skin that transfer pain signals to your brain. This helps reduce the perception of pain and improve overall well-being. Capsaicin is available in the form of creams, gels, and even patches that can be applied to the problematic area.
Topical capsaicin can be used to treat pain associated with arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, muscle pain, and migraines. Although capsaicin is generally safe, it can cause several adverse effects like burns, redness, and itching.
9. Yoga
Yoga is an effective way to relieve pain for people with arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraine, low back pain, and other types of chronic pains. It helps improve the range of motion, relieve inflammation, and help cope with pain mentally. The relaxing effect of yoga reduces the perception of pain, thus becoming less strong and severe.
Yoga doesn’t have side effects or complications. You can participate in yoga both at home and at classes. There are many types of yoga, so you can choose the one best suitable for you.