In Pain? Don’t Do This…
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted July 6, 2018
Let’s be honest — from time to time, we still think we’re young and do things we shouldn’t.
I threw a baseball last weekend (which I haven’t done in years) and hurt my shoulder.
The next morning, I woke up sore.
If you are like many people, when this happens, you reach for aspirin, ibuprofen, or Aleve.
These drugs, called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), are not a good idea if you want to heal your injuries.
In fact, they could be slowly WRECKING your health.
Let me show you.
Many people (and doctors) consider NSAIDs to be the medication of choice for managing musculoskeletal pain and injury.
You can buy these drugs anywhere, so why not use them every day? Right?
Well, there are many reasons NSAIDs are not a good choice: they account for over 36,000 deaths every year (mostly from stomach bleeds and kidney damage).
And they harm your liver.
But a new study gives us yet another reason to avoid these common drugs.
A new study published in the Journal of Musculoskeletal Medicine shows that NSAIDs interfere with the healing process of bone, muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries.
That means the shoulder I hurt is going to take even longer to get better if I take NSAIDs.
And people who use them for chronic back pain or arthritis are doing their bodies more harm than good.
From my perspective, if you want to use NSAIDS for a day or two to help with pain, go ahead. But then stop as quickly as you can.
For longer-term pain relief, try the following.
Dr. Scott’s Pain and Inflammation Protocol:
-
Curcumin: This is the active ingredient in turmeric, responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties. If you like turmeric, get as much as you can. If not, take a curcumin supplement.
- Fish oil: This is great at reducing inflammation throughout the body. Studies have shown its ability to lower the risk for pain, heart disease, dementia, and many other conditions.
- CBD oil: Cannabidiol (or CBD oil) comes from the common cannabis (marijuana) plant, but it doesn’t get you high. When CBD hits the brain, it helps to release a flood of good-feeling molecules, including serotonin (the feel-good, sleep-well brain hormone) and reduces pain. CBD is being used by many people to treat other health problems like anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
- Exercise: It helps to strengthen joints and muscles, so you can avoid injury. There are a million ways to exercise, so find something you love and do it often.
- Avoid vegetable oils: These oils increase inflammation throughout the body. Keeping these oils out of your diet means avoiding processed foods as much as possible.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Ed. Note: Please send your feedback: feedback@livingwelldaily.com – and click here to like us on Facebook.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Small Moves for BIG Benefits (An Exercise Surprise!)
A patient asked me the other day, “What’s the least amount of exercise I can get by with that still has benefits?” That’s actually a great question. Because, let’s face it, many of us struggle to find time for exercise. And even more of us go out of our way to AVOID it. So, my...
Widespread “Forever” Chemicals Boost Cancer Risk?!
We’ve known for years that the chemicals lurking in many everyday products aren’t as harmless as we once believed… However, new research reveals an unsettling truth about one specific group of compounds that could be flowing straight from your tap into your waterglass. And according to a new study, they could be raising your cancer...
Mailbag: Ease Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Pain NATURALLY
“What is your position on peripheral neuropathy?” —On Pins and Needles Hi Pins, Peripheral neuropathy is a challenging condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet. Many folks describe neuropathies as feeling like pins and needles, tingling, or burning. When I...
Pancreas Protector Discovered in the VITAMIN Aisle
Most of us are concerned about our heart health. We also take steps to protect our brains. Even our kidneys and livers get some attention. But the pancreas? It’s seldom given a second thought—or at least, not until something goes wrong. And when it does, it can be serious business. The pancreas is vital for...
Study Reveals New Health Risk in Ultra-Processed Food
New research reveals that ultra-processed foods are even WORSE for our health than we imagined. And the problem isn’t just the sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients. There’s another sneaky threat lurking in convenience foods. And it could multiply their health risks… A recent study published in the journal Globalization and Health uncovered an alarming problem...
A Simple Vitamin Solution Combats Parkinson’s
Our understanding of the gut-brain connection has grown rapidly in recent years. So, it’s no surprise that scientists suspect a connection between gut health and the development of Parkinson’s. However, new research is adding more details to the picture. A groundbreaking study revealed two common nutrients are often critically low in folks with Parkinson’s. This...
The “Cellular Wildfire” Fueling Long-COVID Revealed
A significant number of folks continue to feel unwell after supposedly “recovering” from COVID-19. I have some exciting news if you’re one of the millions battling long-COVID. Scientists from the University of Queensland just uncovered a crucial piece of the puzzle—and all signs point to inflammation as the culprit. Let me explain… ***** This groundbreaking...
Top 9 Nutrients Needed to Maintain Good Health
Let’s face it… the supplement aisle at your local grocery store is kind of overwhelming. Standing there staring at rows upon rows of colorful bottles, each promising better health, increased energy, or miraculous benefits can leave you feeling downright dizzy. With so many options, how can you possibly know which nutrients are truly essential for...
The Mini-Movement Revolution Beats Traditional Workouts
I get it… not everyone loves exercise. But you don’t have to become a gym rat to get major health benefits. New research reveals that those quick trips to take the garbage out or go to the bathroom might be even MORE valuable than your scheduled exercise time. In fact, these mini-movement breaks could be...
Mailbag: Natural Fixes for Stubborn Toenail Fungus
“Is there an actual cure for toenail fungus?” —Feeling Frustrated If you are frustrated because you’ve been battling toenail fungus, I’m not surprised. Toenail fungus is incredibly difficult to treat. But don’t give up. With a combination of natural treatments and patience, relief is possible. Here’s what’s worked for my patients in the past… Tea...