One of the main reasons for creating this website was to provide a place for people to share their stories, obstacles and triumphs. As a long-time contender with chronic pain, I wanted to share information on some of the interventions that have worked for me.
Determining the cause of pain is one of the best ways to decide how/what to treat the pain with.
We've all heard this one: Patient: "Doctor, it hurts when I do this!" Doctor: "Then don't do that!!"
Case in point, I fell on the ice a long time ago and hurt my left shoulder. I've noticed lately that after driving for any length of time my shoulder and neck started to hurt and created headaches. I also noticed that I had the habit of driving with my left hand placed at the 1 o'clock position. Since breaking this habit I no longer have issues when driving.
Could that headache be dehydration? I've learned to reach for the water first when I feel a headache or stiffness setting in. And, yes, water! Not tea, coffee, soda, vitamin water or sports drinks. Water! 8-12 oz and then wait for 15-20 minutes. If it's helping but the head ache isn't totally gone, then more water or an electrolyte replacement, sports, drink, and wait another 15-20 minutes. Usually, this takes care of the head ache. If not then I try to determine cause and treat accordingly.
Another thing to consider is whether the pain is caused by inflammation. This will help to determine whether or not to use Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Acetaminophen is great for aches, pain and fever, but it is not an anti-inflammatory. Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory agent and it works to relieve aches, pain and fevers as well. Just remember that it takes anywhere from 30-60 minutes for relief from oral medications.
For those of you who would rather use a homeopathic approach, Arnica works really well and comes in pill, rub and patch formulations. I have used several different brands of Arnica rubs with good relief for the arthritis pain in my joints as well as TMJ face pain. I love that these rubs usually don't have the menthol scent and are virtually odorless. Just read the label to make sure that menthol or camphor isn't one of the ingredients.
I also like Salon Pas and Tiger Balm patches. Visit ProperHealthSolutions.com and check out the Pain/Inflammation category to find these and other solutions today. Please let us know what works for you!
Remember to always check with your health care provider and pharmacist before using pharmaceutical interventions; even over the counter (OTC) medications, rubs, patches and homeopathic herbs.
To your health! Ray and Deanna Proper
