NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are found in most medicine cabinets. They are known as Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Naproxen as well as others. These drugs are so common that we have begun to think of them as harmless but they are still drugs with both long and short-term side effects.

NSAIDs mask pain symptoms

NSAIDs only mask the symptoms of pain but do nothing to help heal the underlying condition that is causing pain. NSAIDs simply keep the bodies COX 1 and 2 enzymes from doing their job. These natural enzymes create the prostaglandin that triggers pain and inflammation in your body. Taking these drugs, even occasionally, can cause serious health issues and side effects.

Side effects of both long and short term use of NSAIDs

• Cardiovascular disease
• Ulcers and other gastrointestinal conditions
• Heart attack
• Liver and Kidney damage
• Stroke
• Miscarriage

Natural alternatives to NSAIDs

Natural alternatives including food, herbs and bodywork have been used for centuries with great results. The following list of foods, herbs and alternative therapies can help you reduce your inflammation and pain without the use of drugs. Don’t forget water. Dehydration can cause pain in the entire body.

Foods

• Seaweed (Kelp, Arame, wakame)
• Fish (salmon, sardines, tuna)
• Flaxseeds
• Shiitake Mushroom
• Green Tea
• Papaya
• Berries (blueberries, strawberries, cranberries and raspberries)
• Broccoli and Cauliflower
• Sweet Potatoes

Herbs and supplements

• Curcumin
• Ginger
• Omega 3 fatty acids

‘Ask a Naturopath’ for additional information and recommended dosages for natural alternatives for pain relief.

Complementary Therapies

These therapies are safe and have long-term positive health benefits. They work well for arthritis, sports injuries, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, muscle spasms, spinal conditions, and most other health concerns.

• Chiropractic. This therapy involves physically aligning the spine to reduce pain and inflammation throughout your body.
• Osteopathy.  This physical therapy works with aligning the entire body to reduce both skeletal & muscular pain. This type of manipulation is gentle and pain free.
• Massage Therapy. This therapy helps relax your body and physically releases tight muscles that can cause pain.
• Acupuncture. This is a traditional Chinese therapy that uses very thin needles to release energy that builds up along meridians (energy points) in your body. Releasing energy from these points reduces pain.

Choosing natural pain relievers over NSAID’s will help your body be healthier, happier and decrease your risk of life threatening side effects from drugs.