Chronic pain is one of those conditions that many choose to simply live with because diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. Any time you're dealing with an invisible illness that comes with hard-to-quantify symptoms, treatments can be a challenge. In the past, opioids were the go-to treatment option for those with persistent, severe chronic pain. However, with an increased media focus on the risks associated with opioid use, many providers are seeking other alternatives. Here's a look at some solutions for chronic pain that don't include controlled narcotics.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a popular option for treating chronic pain, and for good reason. Massage helps to loosen, soothe, and relax tense muscle tissue that can be contributing to tension, inflammation, and pain. Routine massage therapy, once a week or more, can help you to feel more relaxed and help to reduce some of your overall pain. Some massage therapy even relies on the inclusion of heat, stones, and essential oils to help enhance the effects. You can talk with your massage therapist about different options and what might help to better improve your pain.

TENS Treatment

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, is a therapy that's often used for managing chronic pain. This treatment relies on a series of electrodes that you attach to your skin. Then, a device sends electrical signals to help stimulate nerve fibers. This stimulation blocks pain receptors, easing your pain and discomfort during the treatment period.

Aquatic Exercise

Another thing that many people with chronic pain benefit from is aquatic exercise. The exercise helps to strengthen and tone muscle, which contributes more support to the joints and tendons. This can reduce pain. Additionally, you'll find that the buoyancy that water provides reduces pain because it reduces the effect of gravity on your body's weight. Many patients are referred for aquatic exercise for this reason. This low-impact therapy a couple of times a week can help ease persistent pain.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is another great means for improving chronic pain conditions. If your doctor refers you to a physical therapist, he or she will typically start with low-impact strength exercises, mobility movements, and similar tasks. Then, progress from there as your pain levels will allow. 

The more that you understand non-narcotic treatments for chronic pain, the easier it is for you to avoid these medications. If you're looking for options to ease your pain without the use of opioids and similar medications, talk with your doctor about these treatments.