1. Get Professional Assessment

Although there are lifestyle strategies that offer relief, nothing beats professional pain management. A professional pain management specialist can assess your condition, discuss potential treatment options, and help you determine whether your pain can be cured or managed. For example, when you go for pain management in Fort Lauderdale at Advanced Relief Institute, the team can offer clarity on your condition and help you create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your situation, whether through physical therapy, nerve blocks, medications, or advanced procedures like spinal cord stimulation. This professional support is invaluable so that you won’t self-diagnose and miss the mark.

2. Explore Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

As mentioned, your specialist can recommend physical therapy. If so, then you ideally should work with a therapist. A trained physical therapist can develop a personalized program to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility, which can help alleviate pain. Rehabilitation exercises focus on areas of weakness and address imbalances in the body, often using techniques like gentle stretching, strengthening exercises, and targeted movements that help rebuild function. Working with a physical therapist ensures you’re performing exercises correctly and safely, maximizing their effectiveness and minimizing the risk of further injury.

3. Adopt a Holistic Approach

Chronic pain isn’t just a physical issue—it affects your emotional and mental health as well. So you can help yourself by incorporating practices that address all aspects of your wellbeing. This may include activities like meditation, mindfulness, and yoga, which help reduce stress and promote relaxation. These practices teach you how to tune in to your body and manage your condition more effectively. Additionally, consider going for therapy if it seems your mental health is taking a hit due to the challenges the pain subjects your life to. This holistic approach can make your condition more manageable and improve your overall sense of peace.

4. Stay Active, but Listen to Your Body

Engaging in physical activity might feel counterintuitive when you’re dealing with discomfort, but staying active is crucial for chronic pain management. Regular movement helps increase circulation, reduce stiffness, and release endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. Start small with gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or stretching routines that don’t strain your body. The key is to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. If an activity increases your discomfort, modify it or try something different. The goal is to stay active in a way that supports your mobility and strength without exacerbating your symptoms.

5. Know What to Eat and Avoid

Inflammatory foods, such as processed sugars and refined carbohydrates, can contribute to flare-ups and exacerbate discomfort. On the other hand, a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce inflammation. Foods like berries, leafy greens, salmon, and nuts are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can support overall health. Staying hydrated and minimizing your intake of caffeine and alcohol are also key components in managing chronic pain.

6. Consider Alternative Therapies

In addition to conventional medical treatments, alternative therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy can complement your care plan. Acupuncture, for example, can stimulate nerve pathways and promote pain relief. Chiropractic care can help realign the body, reduce tension, and improve mobility, while massage therapy helps relieve muscle tension, increase blood flow, and promote relaxation. While these treatments might not work for everyone, they can be valuable tools in a comprehensive approach to managing discomfort.

7. Create a Routine and Stick to It

Consistency is key when managing chronic pain. If you have a specific time to see your specialist, never miss it. If you are on meds, never miss your daily dose unless otherwise instructed by your specialist. And always prioritize rest and stress reduction. Sticking to your routine helps you stay on track and maintain a sense of control. Schedule times for exercise, relaxation, meals, and therapy sessions, and be sure to allocate time for rest and self-care. While chronic discomfort can sometimes be unpredictable, a structured routine can provide stability and make it easier to manage symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Unless it can be cured, chronic pain is a condition that persists indefinitely, so addressing it goes beyond quick fixes—it’s about taking control of your life and finding sustainable strategies that work for you.  And remember that you don’t have to go through this journey alone; the right support systems can do a world of good on the path to a healthier, more comfortable life.

Photo by Anthony Tran on Unsplash

The post Creating a Chronic Pain Care Plan: How to Take Control of Your Wellbeing appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

This isn’t exhausting—it can affect how you feel, think, and relate to others. The connection between chronic pain and mental health is real and powerful.

Having a healthcare service like Wellness and Pain ensures a holistic approach to pain management at every step. Their expert team offers services such as medical massage, acupuncture, and IV vitamin therapy, all tailored to your unique needs. By creating personalized treatment plans, they enhance your overall wellness and support you on your journey to better health.

The Emotional Impact of Chronic Pain 

When you’re in pain all the time, it’s natural to feel frustrated. You may notice you’re unable to do the things you used to, which can lead to anger or sadness. This emotional weight can start to affect how you see yourself. Tasks that once seemed easy may now feel out of reach, making you question your abilities and self-worth.

Chronic pain can also limit your social life. If the pain keeps you from seeing friends or joining activities, you might start to feel isolated. Loneliness often follows, and this can make your emotional state worse. The more disconnected you feel, the more your mental health can suffer.

Chronic Pain and Depression

One of the most common mental health issues linked to chronic pain is depression. Studies have shown that people living with long-term pain are more likely to experience depression. This makes sense when you consider how draining constant pain can be. When the pain doesn’t go away, it can make you feel hopeless, like there’s no end in sight. 

Depression can lower your motivation and make it harder to seek treatment. Staying positive or believing things can improve is challenging when feeling low. This creates a cycle where pain feeds depression, and depression makes the pain feel worse. 

Anxiety and Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can also lead to anxiety. You might worry about how the pain will affect your future or fear that it will get worse over time. Anxiety can cause you to avoid certain activities because you’re afraid they might increase your pain. This avoidance can shrink your world, limiting what you can do.

The constant worry about pain can impact daily life in many ways. You might start overthinking simple tasks or feeling stressed about things you used to enjoy. This stress can make the pain feel even more intense, creating another harmful cycle.

Sleep Disturbances and Mental Health 

Chronic pain doesn’t just affect your body and mind during the day—it also affects your sleep. Many people with chronic pain have trouble falling or staying asleep. Pain can wake you up in the middle of the night, leaving you tired the next day. When you don’t get enough rest, your body has difficulty managing pain. Poor sleep can also worsen anxiety and depression.

Not getting enough sleep affects how you feel emotionally. It can make you irritable, lower your ability to focus, and drain your energy. Without good sleep, it becomes even more difficult to manage both the physical and emotional challenges of chronic pain.

Cognitive Functioning and Brain Health

Chronic pain doesn’t just stay in one part of the body; it can affect your brain, too. You might find it harder to concentrate or remember things when you’re in constant pain. Over time, chronic pain can change how your brain works, affecting how you process emotions. These changes can make controlling feelings like sadness, anger, or frustration harder.

Your thoughts can also become distorted. You might start thinking in extremes, assuming the worst about situations or your future. This pattern, known as catastrophizing, can make both the pain and the emotional struggle feel more significant than they are. Learning to manage these thought patterns can help improve your mental health.

Coping Strategies and Mental Health

It’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits when you’re trying to cope with pain. Some people turn to harmful behaviors like substance abuse or over-relying on medication. While these might provide short-term relief, they can worsen your mental and physical health in the long run.

However, there are healthier ways to cope. Practices like mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation can help you manage the emotional side of pain. Talking to a therapist or joining a support group can also provide relief. These strategies help you build resilience and give you the tools to handle pain and its mental effects.

Seeking Professional Help 

Managing chronic pain isn’t just about treating the physical symptoms. Incorporating treatments like shockwave therapy can provide additional relief. It’s essential to address how it affects your mind, too. A healthcare provider can help you create a plan that considers your physical and mental health. For some, cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage negative thoughts and develop better coping strategies.

Working with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, doctors, and mental health providers, can give you the best chance at finding relief. Taking care of your mental health while treating chronic pain can make a big difference in how you feel overall.

Wrapping-Up!

Chronic pain doesn’t just affect your body—it affects your mind, too. It can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues if left unchecked. But by recognizing the connection between pain and mental health and seeking support, you can begin to manage both aspects.

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The post How Chronic Pain Can Affect Your Mental Health appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

With the UK Department of Health suggesting that adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night, it’s worrying that 26% of the nation get just four to five hours of sleep when suffering from muscle or joint pain. Only 13% say they get six or more hours of sleep!

Speaking of the research, Pharmacist Noel Wick and advisor to Amgesic Pain Relief 1% Gel says: “A lack of sleep has been linked to several different disorders including heart disease, obesity, type-2 diabetes and a compromised immune system. So it’s important that sleep is a priority. However, so many Brits are struggling, with pain clearly being a literal sore point that’s impacting the nation’s shuteye.”

As for the various muscle pains that Brits are facing: 

• 52% are dealing with pain in their lower back
• 35% in their shoulders
• 30% in their neck. 

Joint pain is also a problem:

• 46% of Brits said they felt joint pain in the knees
• 41% noted pain in the lower back
• 24% detailed pain in their hips

These pains are caused by a number of issues, from sporting injuries (30%) to age related injuries (29%). Just over a quarter of those polled noted they also feel pain due to a medical condition such as arthritis and 21% say their pain is sparked from a work-related injury. But, it’s somewhat of a catch 22, when it comes to pain and sleep.  Over a third (34%) find that if their sleep is affected then their pain feels worse but 85% rightly believe that not having good-quality sleep means the muscle and/or joint pain takes longer to go away.

“Ultimately, we need to nip pain in the bud so the nation can get their sleep back on track! The Amgesic Pain Relief 1% Gel survey has revealed that a staggering 98% of working Brits have suffered from muscle and/or joint pain, so something needs to be done,” says Noel Wick.

4 Simple Stretches To Try Tonight 

Noel Wick says: “Stretching is a great way to help ease tight, sore muscles and help alleviate muscle and joint pain. Give these a try before bed.”

Seated Spinal Twist:  Stretch your back, glutes, hips, shoulders and neck.   Start by sitting on the ground with your legs out in front of you. Bend your right knee and take your right foot and place it on the floor outside your left thigh. Place your left arm around your right thigh and if you need to, place your right hand on the floor behind you for extra stability. Gently twist to the right side, feeling the rotation in your back. Hold this for 30 seconds before swapping sides. 

Cat-Cow Stretch.  Stretch your back and hips.  Start on all fours with your hands directly underneath your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Breath out as you curl your back up into an arch, taking your gaze behind you through your legs. When you breathe in, reverse the move and drop your belly down, lifting your head up to the sky. Repeat this 20 times in total.

Neck Twist. Stretch your neck and also your shoulders.  Take your left hand and place it on your very lower back with your palm facing away from your body. Now, bend your neck to the right, and look downwards. Using your right hand, slowly encourage your head down, feeling gentle pull down the left side of your neck. Stay here for 20 seconds before switching sides. Repeat as many times as you need.

Door Frame Assisted Chest Stretch. Stretch your chest, shoulders and back and boost your posture.

Start by standing in a door frame. Place your forearms on the doorframe worth your shoulders and elbows at right angles. Gently lean forward; you should feel a stretch across your chest and shoulders. Stay here for 20 seconds before taking a break and repeating three times. 

The At-Home Topical Anti-Inflammatory Solution 

Along with daily stretching, Amgesic Pain Relief 1% Gel offers an easy way to help you feel more comfortable. This over-the-counter gel is formulated to relieve pain and inflammation, providing effective relief from muscle pain, strains, sports injuries, and bruises.  Explaining how Amgesic Pain Relief 1% Gel works, Noel Wicks says: “This pain relief gel contains the active substance diclofenac sodium,  a well-researched medicine which has been proven to be one of the most effective treatments for dealing with acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain.”

To use, apply 2 to 4 grams of the gel to the local site of the muscle or joint pain 3 to 4 times daily. The recommended amount of gel, depending on the area to be treated, is around the size of a 1p or 2p coin.

Noel Wicks adds: “There is no reason to simply put up with the discomfort and disrupted sleep caused by aching muscles and joints. Rather than build up reliance on strong painkillers, which can increase the risk of side-effects and dependency, we need to provide people with a range of options for pain relief which can include topical over-the-counter anti-inflammatory products, such as Amgesic Pain Relief 1% Gel.  “It’s vital we get the nation sleeping properly again, so that we can live our lives to the fullest, pain free.”

Amgesic Pain Relief 1% Gel  competitively retails at £4.99 for a 50g pack and £8.50 for 100g pack. Retailers include: 

• Chemist 4u

• QD Stores
• Bodycare
• amgesic.co.uk
• Amazon

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

The post Enjoy Pain-Free Sleep: 4 Pre-Bed Stretches For A Comfortable Slumber As 74% Of The Nation Admit That Pain Impacts Their Shuteye appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Understanding CBD Oil

CBD is a substance in cannabis plants that differs from THC in that it does not cause an effect like feeling “high.” This quality makes CBD oil an attractive choice for those seeking pain relief without the changes linked to marijuana or some medications. 

How CBD Oil Offers Pain Relief

CBD oil functions by engaging with the body’s system (ECS), which is a sophisticated network of receptors responsible for regulating different bodily functions such as pain perception and mood regulation alongside sleep patterns’ control mechanisms. Influencing these receptors allows CBD oil to alleviate inflammation symptoms and diminish pain levels while fostering a sense of equilibrium within the body—a method numerous individuals view as fundamental to alternative pain relief methods. 

The Anti-Inflammatory Power of CBD

Chronic pain is commonly linked to inflammation in ailments such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. Studies have extensively documented the inflammatory qualities of CBD oil, which indicate its potential in alleviating pain caused by inflammation. With its ability to reduce swelling and discomfort effectively, CBD oil may offer a way to make everyday tasks more bearable without the side effects of conventional pain relief medications. 

CBD Oil and Nerve Pain

Neuropathic pain resulting from nerve damage can be challenging to deal with. CBD oil has displayed encouraging outcomes in alleviating this type of pain. Research indicates that CBD might safeguard nerves from harm and enhance the discomfort associated with conditions such as sclerosis and sciatica. 

Safety and Side Effects

CBD oil is usually well received, with side effects reported to date. In contrast to opioid painkillers that carry a risk of addiction and other severe health concerns, CBD presents an option for extended use. Nevertheless, it is crucial to seek advice from a professional to initiate any new treatment regimen, mainly when dealing with pre-existing health issues or concurrent medications. 

Incorporating CBD Into Your Pain Management Routine

Adding CBD oil to your pain management plan could improve your ability to cope with pain challenges. You can combine it with methods like therapy or dietary changes for results, too! To get the most out of it, start with a small amount and adjust gradually, depending on how your body responds and the relief you feel from pain. 

A Future Free from Pain

Through research and increasing knowledge of CBD and its potential health advantages, the potential of CBD oil in addressing chronic pain naturally presents a promising outlook for effective pain management without the burden of harmful side effects or addiction concerns.

In conclusion, CBD oil represents a significant advancement in the natural management of chronic pain. By leveraging the potent, non-psychoactive properties of CBD, individuals seeking relief can embrace a lifestyle with less discomfort and more vitality. For those exploring this therapeutic avenue, considering high-quality providers like Kauai Hemp Company can enhance the effectiveness of their treatment. With continued research and growing acceptance, CBD oil from reputable sources not only promises a future less burdened by pain but also supports a holistic approach to health and wellness. Whether you’re just beginning to consider CBD or are looking to refine your pain management strategy, understanding the potential of CBD oil is the first step towards a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

Image Source: FreePik

The post Pain Relief, Naturally: Why CBD Oil is the Go-To Solution for Chronic Pain appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

What is PEMF Therapy?

Imagine your body as a substantial power supply. As a phone can’t work without charge, so do our cells. They need energy to operate at their best. With time we experience fatigue and discomfort due to daily pressures and physical challenges.

PEMF Therapy is like a gentle energy boost for your body. It uses safe, pulsing magnetic fields to help “recharge” your cells so they can repair themselves, reduce pain, and bring balance back to your body. It’s non-invasive, which means nothing has to go inside your body, and it works naturally with your own system.

How Can PEMF Therapy Help You?

1. Reduce pain and improve inflammation.
   
   For individuals facing chronic pain or muscle discomfort PEMF Therapy can be helpful. Your cells benefit from reduced inflammation similar to a blocked road in your body that hinders progress. By reducing hindrances PEMF enables your body to recover more quickly and tolerate pain better.
   
2. Better Sleep
   
   Most users believe that PEMF impacts their sleep quality positively. Just as an energizing sleep revitalizes you, PEMF treatment eases your nervous system and syncs your sleep patterns. The result? You experience better sleep that fosters a waking experience of feeling revitalized.
   
3. PEMF therapy promotes more effective and quicker healing and recovery.
   
   When you recover from an injury or face sore muscles after exercise, PEMF Therapy can aid in quicker recovery. It enhances flow in your blood and supports the performance of your cells—much like improving the repair rate for your body.
   

Why PEMF Therapy Works

You might want to know how these pulses work and the answer is in your cells. The structure of our body features millions of cells; each cell requires energy to carry out its responsibilities like muscle healing or combating disease.

Using PEMF Therapy increases electrical power in cells and improves their functionality. You can view it as your body receiving support to thrive well.

Finding the Right PEMF Solution for Your Lifestyle

You can add PEMF Therapy to your life in different forms, depending on your routine and lifestyle:

1. Full-Body Therapy Mat

• What It Does: This mat helps people who want complete relaxation and healing across their body at home. You can settle comfortably on the mat where it addresses your whole body to aid in tension commotion and increase your energy.
• Who It’s For: If you seek to introduce a wellness practice into your routine for managing chronic pain or stress this mat may serve your needs. It provides a soothing refresh every day for your whole body.

2. Chair Mat

• What It Does: You can use this mat in a chair which helps pinpoint relief for your lower back. This mat aids those that remain seated for extended durations and suffer from discomfort tied to prolonged sitting.
• Who It’s For: Using this mat at work or during prolonged sitting keeps your back and spine relieved. You can insert it in your seat and it runs without noise while you continue with your work or activities.

3. Portable Mini Mat

• What It Does: This small mat is designed for easy use. Take it along with you anytime: for a day at work home exercise or on a trip away. It gives a swift and powerful session for locations that desire further comfort.
• Who It’s For: If you travel frequently and hunt for solutions to muscle fatigue and stress, this mini mat provides a simple way to enjoy PEMF Therapy wherever you go. The product is portable and easy to manage as part of your recovery strategy.

4. Sauna Blanket

• What It Does: A combination of PEMF and infrared energy produces a soothing atmosphere at home. The warm heat encourages sweating to detoxify your body while PEMF controls inflammation and enhances relaxation.
• Who It’s For: If you desire a sauna experience but you aren’t willing to travel far this blanket works wonders. You can eliminate stress and boost relaxation effortlessly with this option right at home.

Real People, Real Results

1. Sarah, 42 – Chronic Back Pain Relief

“I’ve dealt with chronic back pain for years, and it often kept me from doing the things I love. After just a few weeks of using the PEMF chair mat, I noticed a big difference. My pain has decreased significantly, and I can finally sit comfortably for long periods. I feel like I have my life back!”

2. John, 55 – Improved Sleep Quality

“I struggled with sleep issues for a long time. I would wake up feeling tired, no matter how early I went to bed. A friend recommended PEMF Therapy, and I decided to try the full-body mat. After using it every evening, my sleep has improved so much. I fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling rested and full of energy.”

3. Emily, 30 – Faster Recovery After Workouts

“As an avid runner, muscle soreness was something I just accepted after my training sessions. The portable mini mat has changed the game for me. I use it right after my runs, and I’ve noticed that my muscles recover much faster, and I don’t feel as stiff the next day. It’s been an amazing addition to my routine!”

Kick off your wellness experience right away.

PEMF Therapy may be perfect for you if you want to experience fewer pains and heighten your body’s self-healing potential. Various PEMF items allow you to integrate wellness into your life whether you are at home or on the move.

The post PEMF Therapy: The Revolutionary Wellness Trend that Everyone is Talking About in 2024 appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Therefore, more and more people are leaving allopathic medicines and going natural. People are choosing kratom to relieve pain and relax their body. Many new users are also consuming kratom to improve their body aches and pains. 

But how does kratom help relieve the pain? We will talk about it in this article. We will also discuss kratom for back pain, alleviating pain, and relaxing your body. So, let’s get started.

Kratom Dosage for Pain

According to the American Kratom Association, more than 15 million Americans are using kratom in their daily routine.

Determining the ideal kratom dosage for pain relief is a gradual process. Start with a low 1-2 grams dose and slowly increase until the desired pain relief is achieved. It’s essential to approach dosage cautiously to avoid adverse effects. 

Factors such as body weight, tolerance, and metabolism should be considered. Regular users may need to adjust their dosage periodically to manage tolerance. Always be mindful of potential risks and prioritize moderation to minimize the risk of dependency.

Top 3 Best Kratom for Pain Relief

Kratom has various strains, and each strain has its own set of alkaloids, which have different effects on the body. Here, we explore three of the best kratom strains known for their effectiveness in providing pain relief.

1. Maeng Da Kratom

Maeng Da is renowned for its potent analgesic effects. It contains high levels of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, alkaloids that interact with opioid receptors in the brain, providing a solid pain-relieving effect. Users often report a quick onset of pain relief and increased energy, making Maeng Da a preferred choice for those seeking physical comfort and mental alertness. You can buy the best maeng da strains on Happy Go Leafy’s website. This vendor provides the best kratom strains in various forms, such as capsules, powder, and shots.

2. Red Bali Kratom

Red Bali is a popular kratom strain known for its calming and soothing properties. It contains high levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine, effectively alleviating chronic pain conditions. Many users find Red Bali particularly helpful for managing arthritis or back pain. Its relaxing effects also make it a good choice for those looking to unwind and relieve stress and pain.

3. Green Malay Kratom

Green Malay is often praised for its balanced effects, providing moderate pain relief without excessive sedation. It contains a mix of alkaloids, offering a smoother experience than some more potent strains. Users appreciate Green Malay’s versatility, as it can relieve pain while allowing for increased focus and energy. This strain is commonly chosen by individuals dealing with chronic pain who still need to maintain a level of productivity throughout the day. Also, make sure you buy kratom strains from a trustworthy source. Some brands provide good quality kratom, which will not give you any side effects.

Factors Influencing Kratom Dosage

These are some factors that can influence your dosage of kratom:

1. Individual Tolerance

Individuals vary in their sensitivity to kratom. Factors such as overall health, metabolism, and previous substance exposure can influence tolerance levels. Beginners are advised to start with lower doses to gauge their response.

2. Strain and Vein Color

Different kratom strains and vein colors contain varying alkaloid profiles, influencing their effects. Red vein strains are often associated with sedation and pain relief, while green and white veins may offer different experiences. Understanding these variations helps users choose an appropriate strain for their desired outcome. 

3. Mode of Consumption

The method of kratom consumption can influence its potency and onset of effects. Kratom can be taken in various forms, including kratom capsules, powder, or extracts. Each method may have a different absorption rate, affecting the overall dose needed for desired outcomes.

4. Body Weight

Body weight plays a role in how kratom is metabolized. Generally, individuals with higher body weight may require a slightly higher dosage for the same effects than those with lower body weight. Adjusting the dose based on weight can help optimize results.

5. Purpose of Use

The intended purpose of using kratom can impact the optimal dosage. Those seeking pain relief might require a different dose than individuals using kratom for energy or mood enhancement. Tailoring the dosage to the specific goal ensures a more targeted response.

6. Overall Health and Medications

Individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking medications should be cautious with kratom use. Certain health conditions and medications may interact with kratom, affecting its absorption and metabolism. 

7. Frequency of Use

Regular kratom users may develop tolerance over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Taking breaks and cycling kratom use can help prevent tolerance buildup and maintain its effectiveness at lower doses.

Kratom and Pain Tolerance

Kratom’s impact on pain tolerance is attributed to its active compounds, particularly mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids interact with opioid receptors in the brain, influencing the body’s pain perception. Here’s a breakdown of how Kratom contributes to pain tolerance:

1. Opioid Receptor Binding: Mitragynine is the primary alkaloid in Kratom that binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain. This interaction triggers analgesic (pain-relieving) effects similar to those of traditional opioids but without any side effects.

2. Activation of Supraspinal Mu-Opioid Receptors: Kratom’s compounds stimulate supraspinal mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This activation modulates pain signals, reducing the perception of pain without causing the sedation associated with some opioid medications.

3. Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibition: Kratom also affects serotonin and noradrenaline levels by inhibiting their reuptake. This dual action contributes to mood enhancement and can indirectly impact pain tolerance by influencing the emotional and psychological aspects of pain perception.

4. Interaction with Delta-Opioid Receptors: Kratom compounds interact with delta-opioid receptors, in addition to mu-opioid receptors. This interaction further enhances the analgesic effects, providing a multi-faceted approach to pain relief.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Some studies suggest that Kratom possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is often associated with pain, and by reducing inflammation, Kratom may contribute to pain relief and increased pain tolerance.

Conclusion: The Best Kratom Strains for Pain

This leads to the end of this blog; we talked about how kratom can help relieve pain and how many users are choosing this fantastic herb for relieving their chronic pain. Kratom binds with the opioid receptors of the body and triggers pain-relieving effects. 

However, choosing the right kratom strain is also very important. Usually, red kratom strains are best for relieving pain and relaxing your mind. Red Maeng Da and Red Bali top the list. In the end, another crucial thing is taking the proper dosage. If you are a beginner, use a smaller dosage first and then increase it gradually. Talking 1-2 grams of kratom is considered a smaller dose. This article will help you in your kratom journey.

The post What is the Best Kratom For Pain Relief? appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

What do steroids do?

Steroids are hormones produced by our body or by pharmaceutical companies. The former play role in regulating certain physiological processes in our body, such as immune response, water and salt physiology, metabolism, inflammation and many more. Steroids made by pharmaceutical companies mimic the natural ones. Patients take them for many diseases like for instance rheumatoid arthritis and after organ transplants. They are also widely used as an injection for pain conditions caused by inflammation, such as osteoarthritis in the joints or spine.

How do steroids work for pain?

Pain is caused by inflammation. Inflammation is how our own body responses to injury and trauma. Our immunology system sends several various cells to inflamed area in order to contain inflammation in this area, get rid of it and heal the injured tissue. Unfortunately this process is painful. And if the inflammation is chronic, like in osteoarthritis, the pain is chronic as well. And here come steroids. One of their mode of action is to suppress immune system and stop body’s natural response to inflammation. So, although they help to alleviate pain, they do it by switching off your own defence system, rather than by supporting it. This is one of the reasons why beneficial effect from steroids injection is usually short-living. Important fact to remember as well is that the standard dose of steroid shot, for instance 40mg Triamcinolone is ten times (!!!) more that daily dose of steroids naturally produced by our body.

Why steroids are dangerous amid coronavirus pandemic?

Fighting any infection, be it bacterial or viral , requires a huge mobilisation of your body’s own defence system. Your immune system has to fight bacterias and viruses, stop them spreading in your body doing harm. And if you happened to take a steroid shot, you jeopardise your whole immune system for a while. In practice, it means that you put yourself in a risk of loosing the battle with the infection. In case of Covid-19 the risk is deadly…

Many health organisations, such as Faculty of Pain Medicine of the Royal College of Anaesthetists and British Society of Skeletal Radiologists have issued their guidelines where they advise a great caution regarding steroid shots during the pandemic.

Is it safe to have steroid injection after the pandemic?

It is a difficult question. First of all we have to accept that the virus will stay around for a while so the risk of infection will be still very real, at least unless the vaccine is available. The possibility of second wave of pandemic or indeed a new pandemic cannot be reasonably discounted. But also we have to look from broader perspective: what we have learned from the current pandemic is that one needs a strong and robust immune system in order to survive. The lesson is that we should protect our immune system and make it strong by avoiding anything what might jeopardise it, like steroids, and by helping maintaining its integrity and strength, by the way of right supplements, diet, and healthy lifestyle, including exercise, good night sleep and so on.

What are the alternatives to steroids?

Obviously, there are conditions which require taking steroids for many years or even whole life. In such cases it would be dangerous not to continue taking them. But there is a good and safe alternative to steroid injections for musculoskeletal conditions, such as osteoarthritis.

The alternative is offered by regenerative medicine. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection is simple, effective and safe way of dealing with inflammation and pain. How PRP is different from steroids though? First and foremost, PRP stimulates immune response to trauma and inflammation. So it works in oposite way to steroids which suppress immune response. Blood platelets contain a large amount of growth factors and anti-inflammatory factors which directly reduce inflammation at the site of injury. So PRP enhances natural reaction to injury and promotes healing. Secondly, it is your own blood so there is no risk of cross-infection or overdose like it is with any drug.

So if you suffer from joint, spine, ligament, muscle pain and you think or you have been offered steroid injection, think twice before you decide to have it. Consider safe and highly effective alternative such as PRP injection. To learn more about the alternatives visit our website www.algocells.com .

The post Steroids injection in the time of pandemic appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Sanna Hakala, M.Sc., physiotherapist

It has been both scientifically proven and experimentally shown that conventional sitting leads to health problems and in the end, is fatal. However, there are situations where we need to sit, and people tend to sit an average 10-13 hours per day.

Conventional sitting contains numerous health related problems. The most familiar is the musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), which can occur for example as low back pain, shoulder pain, or headache. Leaning into a back rest of an office chair passivates core muscles, and stresses lower back. Too flexed, typically 90 degree angle in hip and knee joints forces the posture to slouch and makes joints feel stiff after sitting.

Unbalanced posture stresses all the tissues in our body, as muscles, bones and ligaments are working all the time outside their comfort zone. Think about the famous Pisa tower: when some of the foundations collapse, the whole building from that floor up is out of balance, and our body acts the same. The basis of our sitting posture is the position of our pelvis, so on that account maintaining the good position of the pelvis is crucial.

Other sitting-related disorders, more or less harmful

Other problems in conventional sitting are less familiar but more fatal than MSDs. Flexed hip joints compress the groin area, in which are the big circulation channels for blood and lymph. That disturbs blood circulation, especially in the veins that take the blood back up from the distal parts of the lower limbs. Disturbed flow in the lymph channels causes swelling. Together these two increase the risk of embolism that is the reason for many fatal conditions.

Stable position of joints decreases the metabolism of cartilage, and fastens the process of degeneration. This can be experienced while standing up from a chair, when the joints feel stiff before warming up.

The slouched position of the upper body also disturbs the digestive system because it inhibits peristaltics by compressing the intestine. Slouching disturbs also breathing, as the flexed thoracic spine blocks the costal ribcage, and prevents lungs from enlarging while inhaling. Reduced oxygen intake causes tiredness, a phenomenon that can be experienced every time we spend time in a poorly ventilated space.

In addition, conventional sitting holds in a problem that is considered more or less as a taboo. Constant pressure to the pelvic area disturbs blood circulation and compresses nerves, causing numbness that may result in problems in the intimate life of both men and women, because of the decreased sensation in the genital area. Because of the pressure it causes, conventional sitting has been proven to be a risk of prostate problems, such as cancer. Also incontinence can be considered as a sitting-related disorder.

Good posture on a saddle chair provides health and energy

Rethinking the way of sitting has an enormous effect on wellbeing, quality of life, and also the life expectancy. Thinking outside the box provides a solution that solves the problems of sitting. Sitting higher to open the circulation channels, loading the joints to promote joint health, positioning the pelvis in a way that the spinal curves are neutral, and having no pressure on the pelvic floor, are all enabled by a saddle chair with a divided seat.

Sitting feet on the side rather than in front of the body allows the pelvis to be set up correctly. It is essential that the saddle chair has a gap in the middle, so that the seat is divided, otherwise the correct position of the pelvis is too uncomfortable to get and maintain. The gap is there to prevent pressure on the most sensitive part in our body.

As the pelvis is slightly rotated forward on a saddle chair, the spine automatically has its neutral curves, discs are evenly loaded which prevents prolapses, and the big muscles don´t need to work to maintain the balance. When the big muscles are not working, the core muscles have space to activate. All in all, as the whole back is not stressed everyday by an unhealthy load, it is safe to use the body in every way without the risk of damages in spinal area.

Choose energy and wellbeing instead of health risks

Higher sitting position opens the hip and knee joints to 135 degrees, which is proven to be optimal for the joint health and also enables the correct setting of pelvis. Within the higher sitting level, also the desk is required to be height adjustable to prevent leaning forward or sitting too low. On top of that, height adjustable desk provides possibility to switch between sitting and standing, which is recommended despite of sitting in a healthy way.

In addition, when sitting on a saddle chair, the important sponge-effect helps the joints to maintain metabolism in a good level. The joints are not stiff even after long periods of sitting on a saddle chair. The wide angle of hip joints also allows circulation to flow freely. The lower limbs are not swollen at the end of the day, and the risk of a fatal embolism has decreased.

Good position of the upper body allows the digestive system to work properly, and breathing becomes easier as the costal ribcage doesn´t block the lungs and they have space to enlarge. Well working digestion and free breathing means a more energetic feeling without headaches or constipation.

Feel more energetic, work without pain, and enjoy life to its fullest. The paradigm of sitting ergonomics has been solved.

www.salli.com

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This November Lushington Chiropractic are offering Half Price Consultations (usually worth £49.00) Offer ends 30th November. To book a half price consultation call Lushington Chiropractic on 01323 722499. Please mention this Wellbeing online article when you book. chirocare.co.uk

New Lady Chiropractor joins award winning clinic! Lushington Chiropractic is delighted to introduce their newest member to the team, Dr Victoria White DC, MChiro,MA (Oxon), LRCC. Dr White has this to say about her short time at the clinic “I love being here at Lushington Chiropractic, working with such a fantastic team and meeting wonderful guests”.

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Abraham Lincoln said “It’s the life in your years that count, not the years in your life”.

Are you limited by arthritic aches? Do you get shoulder pains? Or have you had enough of an achy hip? Are you fed up of sciatic nerve pain? Or are headaches holding you back? Do you want to do something about these problems rather than just relying on endless painkillers?

Thousands of Eastbourne residents have already found an expert solution with chiropractic care at Lushington Chiropractic. Aches and pains can be difficult problems, which is why it’s best to speak to an expert. If you have a muscle, joint or nerve problem, then speak to a specialist. The Chiropractors at Lushington Chiropractic take the time to get to the root of the problem and hope to give you the quality of life you deserve.

Chiropractic is safe, natural and effective. The chiropractors are highly experienced and the whole team at Lushington Chiropractic are committed to the highest possible standards of patient and customer care. They will take time to answer all your questions and believe in specific and gentle healthcare, personally tailored to your needs.

It’s your life, your health and your choice!

Lushington Chiropractic are offering the readers of Wellbeing Magazine Half Price Consultations (usually worth £49.00) offer ends 30th September.

To book a half price consultation call Lushington Chiropractic on 01323 722499 and mention the Wellbeing Magazine offer.
www.chirocare.co.uk

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