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Conventional medicine has long struggled with effectively treating chronic pain. Fortunately, emerging research is driving the evolution of holistic pain management, offering more options than ever. Relying solely on over the counter medications for symptomatic relief of pain is becoming outdated, as science continues to uncover the numerous long-term side effects and limitations of classic pain killers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Chronic pain management requires a multi-faceted approach with targeted nutrients playing a key role. This is a crucial and overlooked pillar that can help to catalyze long-term relief from persistent pain. By adopting an integrative pain management plan, we can address pain from multiple angles. Let’s explore the nature of pain and some supplement strategies that may support long-term relief.
Why Do We Feel Pain?
We all know what pain feels like, but what drives it? Understanding what happens in the body when pain arises makes it easier to implement effective strategies and reduce discomfort.
Pain is a complex interaction between our physiology, psychology, and emotions. Certain nerves detect signals and transmit them to the brain, where they are processed into sensations we recognize and feel as pain. Since this processing occurs in multiple areas of the brain—including those linked to emotions—pain is often intertwined with our emotional state and they can play off and influence each other.
Sometimes, pain has a clear cause, such as an injury that hasn’t fully healed. Other times, it’s less obvious. In most cases, especially with long-term pain, there’s both an inflammatory and a neuropathic component. Certain nerves or tissues become more sensitive to stimuli, and an increase in inflammatory molecules can prolong pain perception and slow healing.
Acute vs. Chronic Pain
There’s a significant difference between acute and chronic pain. Acute pain typically results from injury and serves as a warning signal to prevent further harm. In many cases, short-term pain is a necessary part of the healing process.
For example, a sprained ankle triggers pain to discourage movement, allowing the joint the rest it needs to heal. Acute pain tends to resolve on its own as the injury heals.
Chronic pain, on the other hand, doesn’t go away on its own and is much more complex. It can lead to functional limitations and significantly reduce quality of life.
For pain relief, nSAIDs, such as ibuprofen are widely used. Long-term reliance on these medications raises myriad health concerns. There are much safer alternatives that may not only relieve pain but also promote a faster healing for acute injuries.
The Problem with NSAIDs
nSAIDs are marketed as anti-inflammatory agents, which is only partly true. While they block inflammatory pathways, they do not resolve them.
Inflammation plays a crucial role in healing by triggering a cascade of events that promote tissue repair. As healing progresses, inflammation should naturally subside. However, nSAID use has been shown to interfere with this process, potentially contributing to chronic inflammation and slowing musculoskeletal recovery.
Even moderate nSAID use can disrupt the gut microbiome, cause digestive discomfort, and weaken the gut lining, which can negatively impact overall health. Heavy use is associated with a higher risk of peptic ulcers, kidney issues, cardiovascular events, and poor cerebrovascular outcomes. Additionally, nSAIDs place a burden on the liver, which is essential for detoxification and maintaining health throughout the lifespan.
As a result, research is increasingly exploring holistic approaches to managing chronic pain.
A Holistic Approach to Pain Management
Effective pain management goes beyond symptom relief—it requires a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach and has many layers. Research supports various holistic strategies, including acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, chiropractic care, biofeedback, massage, dietary interventions, low-level laser therapy, and targeted supplementation.
Supplements can play a valuable role in pain management for two key reasons. First, certain supplements provide short-term relief, much like NSAIDs, by supporting tissues, modulating inflammation, and influencing neuronal pathways to reduce pain perception—all without the associated risks. Second, targeted nutraceuticals not only help lower inflammation but also promote long-term healing, addressing the root causes of pain rather than merely masking symptoms.
While supplements are just one piece of the puzzle, they are a powerful tool worth exploring in a holistic pain management plan.
Supplements for Pain
P.E.A (Palmitoylethanolamide)
P.E.A is a fatty acid amide naturally produced by the body to regulate inflammation and pain. It works by activating PPAR-α receptors, reducing inflammatory signalling, and enhancing endocannabinoid activity, which helps lower pain perception.
When inflammation is high, the body may not produce enough P.E.A, making supplementation a useful tool for pain relief. Research shows that P.E.A supplementation leads to a steady reduction in pain over time and has been studied for conditions like low back pain, pelvic pain, TMJ disorders, and osteoarthritis.
Check out our favorite P.E.A by AOR here
Curcumin
Curcumin is a well-researched anti-inflammatory that targets both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. It shares mechanisms with NSAIDs, such as COX-2 inhibition, but also promotes inflammation resolution and helps desensitize nerves.
Studies have shown curcumin’s effectiveness across various types of pain, with notable improvements in quality of life for those with chronic pain.
We recommend LifeChoice Curcumin + Boron for optimal absorption and efficacy.
Astaxanthin
Like curcumin, astaxanthin is a potent anti-inflammatory. In terms of pain, research has shown that it inhibits two primary pain pathways (MAPKs and NF-𝜅B).
Adding astaxanthin to a pain management regime could show great benefit, while supporting the overall health of the body.
For the best results, Regenurex astaxanthin is our recommendation
DMSO Gel
DMSO is a sulfur compound known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. When applied topically, it is effective in managing pain related to tendonitis, arthritis, sprains, strains, soft tissue injuries, muscle aches, diabetic neuropathy, and complex regional pain syndrome.
Because DMSO is absorbed through the skin and enters circulation, it can target both localized pain and discomfort in deeper tissues, providing relief across different layers of the body.
Whether through conventional medications like NSAIDs or holistic approaches, understanding why pain is happening is essential for effective management . While NSAIDs can be effective for short-term relief, their long-term use carries significant risks. As research increasingly supports holistic pain management strategies, incorporating methods like acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and targeted supplements can offer sustainable and safer pain relief. Supplements such as PEA, curcumin, astaxanthin, and DMSO gel provide promising alternatives by addressing both the inflammatory and neuropathic components of pain. By integrating these holistic approaches, pain can be managed more effectively and improve overall quality of life.
Author: Lisa Kowalyk,CNP
