Many people don’t like the idea of having to take pills regularly to reduce pain. Luckily, plenty of alternative therapies exist. Before trying any alternative therapy, patients should talk with their doctor. Certain alternative therapies may not be safe for all patients and some may work better for certain types of pain.

Magnets

Magnets are most commonly used for pain relief. Magnets increase capillary blood flow, which may help flush inflammatory agents that cause headaches. People with back pain have received relief from sleeping on magnetic mattresses and sitting on magnetic seat cushions. Certain wrist and ligament problems have been said to heal faster when they are wrapped in magnetic bandages or when magnets are applied to the area. Regular use of magnets has even been said to relieve headaches and reduce the symptoms of asthma.

Biofeedback

Patients learn to use special machines to control certain body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. Cancer patients often use biofeedback to help them deal with pain.

Massage Therapy

This method helps relieve tension in sore muscles and also helps relax the patient, which can relieve pain related to tension.

Imagery

When using this technique, patients visualize mental pictures or situations. The way imagery works is not exactly understood, but it has been found to promote relaxation and even lengthen survival time in patients with cancer.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

In this technique mild electric currents are applied to selected areas of the skin. The sensation is described as a small buzzing, tapping or tingling. Somehow the small currents interfere with pain sensations. Pain relief lasts beyond the time when the currents are applied.

Acupuncture

When acupuncture is practiced, special needles are inserted into various parts of the body at varying depths and angles. Particular points of the body are believed to control certain areas of pain.

Hypnosis

When a patient is hypnotized, his or her mind becomes more open to therapeutic suggestions. The therapist can make a recommendation while the patient is hypnotized that will help him or her to relax. With assistance the patient can be taught to return to this state on his or her own.