​Before I begin, I spent 2-3 years in moderate to severe pain due to a spinal injury. The pain was so bad that even breathing hurt like hell. I tried Tylenol and Ibuprofen, and nothing worked. I did not know where to turn, and I did not know there were alternative pain relievers.
There are various alternatives to conventional pain relievers (like NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and opioids) that can be effective for managing pain. These alternatives include natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and non-pharmacological therapies. Here are some options:
Natural Remedies and Supplements

1. Turmeric/Curcumin: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help reduce pain, especially in conditions like arthritis.
2. Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate pain from osteoarthritis and muscle soreness.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s can reduce inflammation and are beneficial for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Capsaicin: Derived from chili peppers, capsaicin creams or patches can be applied topically to reduce pain by desensitizing nerve receptors.
5. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Supplements that can support joint health and reduce pain in osteoarthritis.
6. Willow Bark: Contains salicin, which has pain-relieving properties similar to aspirin.
7. Boswellia: An herbal extract with anti-inflammatory properties that can help with conditions like arthritis.

Physical Therapies

1. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help manage pain, improve mobility, and strengthen muscles, reducing strain on joints.
2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to improve function and reduce pain.
3. Yoga and Tai Chi: These practices improve flexibility, strength, and balance while reducing stress and pain.
4. Massage Therapy: Can relieve muscle tension, reduce stress, and alleviate pain.
5. Chiropractic Care: Focuses on spinal manipulation and other techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain.

Mind-Body Techniques

1. Acupuncture: Involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and improve overall wellness.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques that can help manage chronic pain by reducing stress and improving coping mechanisms.
3. Biofeedback: Teaches you to control physiological functions such as heart rate and muscle tension, which can help manage pain.
4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of psychotherapy that can help change the way you perceive and respond to pain.

Lifestyle Changes

1. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help manage pain. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
2. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce strain on joints and alleviate pain, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis.
3. Adequate Sleep: Ensuring quality sleep is crucial for pain management and overall health.

Topical Treatments

1. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Topical Analgesics: Creams, gels, or patches containing ingredients like menthol, lidocaine, or salicylates can provide localized pain relief.

Alternative Therapies

1. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Uses low-voltage electrical current to relieve pain.
2. Ultrasound Therapy: Uses sound waves to reduce pain and inflammation in deep tissues.
3. Laser Therapy: Involves the use of light to reduce pain and inflammation.

Hydration and Rest

1. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can support overall health and potentially reduce pain caused by conditions like kidney stones or headaches.
2. Rest and Recovery: Ensuring proper rest and allowing time for recovery can help manage and reduce pain, especially after physical exertion or injury.

Aromatherapy

1. Essential Oils: Oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint can be used in aromatherapy to reduce pain and promote relaxation.

Professional Guidance

1. Consult Healthcare Providers: Always consult with healthcare providers before starting any new treatment or therapy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
   
   

These alternatives can be used alone or in combination, depending on the type and severity of pain. It's important to find what works best for you. No one should live their life in pain. My hope for this article is that it helps one person find pain relief. I will say that Turmeric helped me after I had my 3rd spinal fusion. It is a fantastic anti-inflammatory aid. I was also using CBD cream on my back and the combination worked very well!

Recently, I have decided to adopt a healthier lifestyle. I had gained a lot of weight since 2020 (60lbs to be exact), and my eating was out of control. With everyone around me trying to get healthier, it inspired me to start a weight loss journey. I had done one in 2018/2019 and I lost 70lbs. I made so many mistakes during that journey, including not eating nearly enough, not taking care of my skin as I lost weight, and not taking care of my joints. During that time, I didn't know there was something I could take to keep my skin and joints healthy as I lost weight. It wasn't until recently when I learned about collagen peptides.  

Collagen peptides, derived from animal connective tissues, have gained popularity as a dietary supplement for their numerous health benefits. Here are some key benefits of collagen peptides:
Skin Health

1. Improved Elasticity and Hydration: Collagen peptides can help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance by promoting the production of new collagen and elastin fibers.
2. Reduced Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Regular intake of collagen peptides may reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, contributing to a more youthful complexion.
3. Enhanced Skin Repair: Collagen can support the skin's natural repair processes, potentially reducing the appearance of scars and enhancing wound healing.

Joint Health

1. Reduced Joint Pain: Collagen peptides can help reduce joint pain and inflammation, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis.
2. Improved Joint Function: Supplementing with collagen peptides may improve joint mobility and function, making physical activities more comfortable.
3. Cartilage Support: Collagen is a key component of cartilage, and consuming collagen peptides can support cartilage health and reduce the risk of degenerative joint disorders.

Bone Health

1. Increased Bone Density: Collagen peptides can contribute to increased bone mineral density, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
2. Bone Strength: Collagen provides structural support to bones, enhancing their strength and resilience.

Muscle Mass

1. Muscle Growth: Collagen peptides contain amino acids that are essential for muscle growth and repair, making them beneficial for athletes and individuals engaged in regular physical exercise.
2. Reduced Muscle Loss: Supplementing with collagen peptides may help prevent age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia), maintaining muscle mass and strength.

Hair and Nail Health

1. Stronger Nails: Collagen peptides can promote nail strength and reduce brittleness, leading to healthier, more resilient nails.
2. Healthier Hair: Collagen supports the structure of hair, potentially reducing hair breakage and promoting thicker, healthier hair growth.

Gut Health

1. Gut Lining Repair: Collagen peptides may help repair the gut lining, which can improve gut health and reduce symptoms of leaky gut syndrome.
2. Improved Digestion: Collagen can support digestive health by aiding the production of stomach acid and improving nutrient absorption.

Cardiovascular Health

1. Arterial Health: Collagen peptides can support the structural integrity of blood vessels, potentially reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular conditions.
2. Heart Function: Collagen supports the tissues of the heart, contributing to overall heart health.

Overall Well-being

1. Hydration and Tissue Maintenance: Collagen helps maintain hydration and supports the overall maintenance and repair of tissues throughout the body.
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of collagen peptides can contribute to reduced inflammation and improved overall health.

Dosage and Considerations

1. Dosage: The recommended dosage of collagen peptides can vary, but typical amounts range from 5 to 15 grams per day, depending on individual needs and health goals.
2. Quality: Choose high-quality collagen peptides from reputable sources to ensure purity and effectiveness.
3. Allergies and Sensitivities: Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to collagen sources (e.g., bovine, porcine, marine) should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before use.
   
   

Incorporating collagen peptides into your diet can offer numerous health benefits. If you're embarking on a weight loss journey, I would definitely recommend this supplement. As a woman over 40, it's important to protect our bones and joints. When it comes to weight loss, this supplement can help with skin elasticity. The more weight you have to lose, the more you have to deal with loose skin. This supplement will help with getting rid of some of the loose skin.
The collagen peptides supplement I take is from Walgreens, and I have 2 scoops a day in water. Walgreens sells it for $19.99, but I got it on sale for $17.99.