Body aches are an unfortunate reality for many people. Whether it’s from a sports injury, arthritis, or simply from spending too much time at a desk job, there are plenty of ways to experience pain in your muscles and joints. And unfortunately, many people turn to over-the-counter medications as their first line of defense. While these drugs can offer some relief, they often come with many side effects, including drowsiness, gastrointestinal problems, and even addiction.
Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to get rid of body aches fast without medication. Here are science-backed methods that can help you find relief:
Apply a cold compress
Body aches often result from inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. While inflammation is a necessary part of the healing process, it can often cause discomfort. Cold therapy can help to reduce inflammation by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling.
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help numb pain receptors and provide relief from pain. For best results, wrap the ice in a thin towel and apply it to the area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat this process as needed throughout the day. In addition to cold therapy, you may also want to try gentle stretches or over-the-counter pain medication to relieve pain further.
Stretch your muscles
According to research, stretching is an effective way to reduce body aches. It helps to increase blood flow and flexibility, which can speed up the healing process. In addition, stretching helps to reduce muscle tension, which can often be the cause of pain.
While it may seem counterintuitive, stretching can help you move more easily and reduce the risk of future injuries. For best results, stretch for at least 10 minutes a day and focus on all major muscle groups. If you’re not sure how to get started, plenty of online resources and instructional videos can help.
Take over-the-counter medication
There’s nothing worse than waking up with achy muscles or a throbbing headache. But fortunately, several over-the-counter medications can help relieve pain quickly and effectively. For muscle aches and pains, ibuprofen and aspirin are both excellent choices. They work by reducing inflammation, which is the main cause of pain. For headaches, ibuprofen is a good option, or you could try acetaminophen.
If you have a more severe headache, such as a migraine, you might want to try a medication specifically designed for migraines, such as sumatriptan. Whichever medication you choose, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully to get the best results.
Go to a Health Professional Immediately
Aches and pains are a part of life, but it’s time to see a health professional when they become severe or chronic. Chiropractors, physical therapists, and massage therapists can help relieve aches and pains, but it’s important to choose the right provider for your needs.
If you’re experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or muscle spasms, a chiropractor can help realign your spine and release pressure on your nerves. If you’re dealing with muscle pain or soreness, a physical therapist can provide exercises and stretches that will help to strengthen your muscles and relieve tension. A dentist or orthodontist might help you get same-day implants to relieve pain from toothaches. Whatever your needs, a health professional can help you get rid of aches fast.
Try a natural remedy
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to get rid of aches fast, consider trying a natural remedy. There are many different herbs and other natural substances that have been shown to provide pain relief.
For example, ginger effectively reduces inflammation, while curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce pain and swelling. You can find these and other natural remedies at your local health food store or online. With a little bit of research, you’ll be sure to find the perfect remedy for your needs.
Use a heating pad
For centuries, people have used heat to relieve pain. Hot water bottles, heating pads, and warm baths are popular ways to soothe aches and pains. The heat from these treatments can help to increase blood flow, relax muscles and reduce inflammation. As a result, heat can be an effective way to get rid of aches fast.
The best way to use heat for pain relief is to apply it for 20-30 minutes. Make sure the heating pad is set to a comfortable temperature and wrap it around the area of pain. You can also alternate between hot and cold treatments for additional relief.
Final Thoughts
Body aches can be a real pain, but plenty of ways to find relief. By trying some of these science-backed methods, you can get rid of your body aches fast without medication. And always remember to consult a doctor before starting any new treatment plan.