You know how limiting pain can be if you live with it. Fortunately, you can reduce your discomfort while raising your energy levels by making simple lifestyle modifications.
When you combine these exercises with your physical therapy treatments, you may help yourself heal from discomfort and achieve the physical goals you’ve set for yourself.
Call Peak Orthopedic Physical Therapy in Torrance today to learn more about how we can help you enhance your energy and lessen your discomfort.
The secret to changing your life for the better
Get enough sleep!
Did you know that approximately ⅓ of your life is spent sleeping? Because of this, it is vital to make sure that your mattress is right for you. The mattress you sleep on can affect how your body feels when it’s awake. Since everyone sleeps differently, it is recommended that you choose a bed according to your sleep style:
- Memory foam. If you toss and turn all night or switch positions repeatedly, you may want to try out memory foam. It may help you stay in one place, as it forms the shape of your body.
- Soft mattress. Side sleepers generally benefit from a softer mattress, as it is easier on their sides.
- Firm mattress. A medium-to-firm mattress will help with those backaches if you sleep on your back.
2. Relax.
While we are all aware of the mental effects of stress, it can also exacerbate physical pain. As a result, it’s critical to carry some stress-relieving tactics in your back pocket for when you need them!
A warm bath is an excellent technique to relieve tension while also soothing sore muscles and joints. Breathing exercises can also aid relaxation by soothing the mind and body. Taking two or three deep breaths and slowly releasing them through your nose is an easy technique to do as well.
3. Eat nutritious meals.
The food you eat is what fuels you throughout the day. Certain foods can provide you with more energy, in addition to relieving the pain you feel. A few of these include:
- Salmon. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which help relieve neck, back, and joint pain.
- Ginger. The ginger plant has been known to relieve pain from migraines, as well as muscle aches and nausea. It is typically used as a spice and easily sprinkled into a meal.
- Hot peppers. This spicy treat has been known to relieve arthritis pain. Even if you aren’t a fan of the spice, a serving as small as half a teaspoon could help relieve some pain.
- Cherries. Cherries aren’t just for pies and milkshakes! These yummy fruits increase antioxidants, which can relieve pain and inflammation.
4. Exercise to boost your endorphins.
When you exercise, your body produces endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals that work as natural pain relievers. While exercising with aches and pains may seem challenging, even light movement can bring much-needed comfort. Endorphin levels can be boosted by inhaling a relaxing lavender perfume, listening to music, or eating chocolate. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved!
5. Seek the help of your physical therapist.
At our practice, we provide a variety of treatment options that can help you feel better and have more energy. We’ll figure out where your pain is coming from so we can treat it at its source, giving you long-term comfort. The following are some of the most popular pain-relieving techniques we use:
- Ultrasound. Ultrasound produces sound waves that can assist in blocking pain signals to the brain.
- Ice and heat therapies. Ice works to reduce inflammation, also providing soothing pain relief. Heat works to warm the muscles and tendons, making movement more manageable and less painful.
- Aquatic therapy. Water can stimulate nerves and provide resistance for exercise and strength training. It allows for more effortless movement, which can ease the stress on your body.
- Massage therapy. A physical therapist is highly educated on painful areas of the body. Through massage, they can manipulate your sore muscles and joints, thus reducing inflammation and providing relief.
Start making changes today for a better tomorrow
By implementing some of these tips into your daily life, you should notice a boost in energy, as well as a decrease in pain. To get more help, don’t hesitate to contact our office today. We’ll help you achieve your physical goals so you can live the life you want!
