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Some women I’ve spoken to living in chronic pain have said they’re tired of spending money on products claiming to help with managing chronic pain. I think it’s fair to say; we enjoy spending money on products and services that improve our well-being or leave us happier or perhaps sexier. Right?

So I did some digging (being the research nerd that I am) and compiled a list of products I believe can help you if you’ve also bought products that turned out to be sour lemons. I only recommend products I believe in or have used myself. 

Before we get into some of my favorite products, I’ll first explain what chronic pain is, some misconceptions, and why chronic pain happens.

What is Chronic Pain?

Medical experts define chronic pain as constant pain lasting longer than 12 weeks despite treatment or medication and most people can return to normal after pain from an injury or surgery. But there are situations where the pain can go on for longer or come out of the blue.

Some Misconceptions about Chronic Pain

Something is wrong if you’re in pain

One common misconception about chronic pain is that pain is “bad” or indicates that something is wrong. Pain is actually a necessary function of our central nervous system. It usually protects us, warns us and gives us valuable feedback about what is happening. But sometimes these signals are complicated, and the CNS misfires.

Kathleen Anderson, MS, CRC, LPC

Chronic pain is very complex as other factors such as mood or genetics can also play a part.

Chronic pain must be treated with an opioid to get any pain relief

The primary purpose of opioids is to reduce pain but these drugs don’t get to the root of the problem and solve it. The pain continues to be present, and if one neglects the root cause, there’s a good chance that the pain can continue to get worse. It’s like using a bandaid to cover up a deep cut that won’t stop bleeding; if you don’t stop the bleeding, it will continue.

Why does Chronic Pain Happen?

Chronic pain can happen because of injury and can develop when nerve endings become damaged so pain can feel more intense and treating the injury may not solve the issue.

Alternatively, chronic pain can occur without an injury and may sometimes result in a health condition such as fibromyalgia. In my case, I experienced a very subtle dull pain in my left hip and didn’t incur an injury, It didn’t happen because of a fall; It came out of nowhere.

Great Products to Overcome Chronic Pain

Alright, check out some of my personal favourites and why I think they can help with your chronic pain management.

1.Huggaroo Microwavable Neck Wrap

I like this ultra plush wrap because it covers the entire neck and upper back, providing much needed warm and moist pain relief for your sore upper back muscles and stiff neck. In 2019 and 2020, the Chicago Tribune and Bestreviews.com, rated it the best microwavable heating pad. It’s filled with flaxseeds, lavender, and chamomile (check the site to see what else is inside).

Also, check out their popular weighted blanket that was one gift inside the gift bag swag for the 2019 Oscars presenters. If Huggaroo is good enough for Lady Gaga (who has talked openly about her daily struggles with fibromyalgia) it’s good enough for me! (Please note that some Huggaroo products are not available in all countries).

2.HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

The company's site claims that their infrared sauna blanket is an at-home sauna experience matching the experience at their famous NYC spa. I've included it on the list because of the stellar reviews on their website. Quite a few users reported a huge decrease in their chronic pain levels after use.

This sleek blanket consists of clay, crystals, and layers of charcoal with low EMF infrared heat that increases your body's thermal energy. According to the site, " You sweat like you’re working out, without working out." If you live in the NYC area, you can book a time at the HigherDose spa to try it out (but you most likely can’t right now because of COVID-19). This blanket looks like a worthwhile investment.

3.Acupressure Mat and Pillow by Prosource

I'm a big fan of acupuncture because of its many benefits, so I picked up this acupressure mat and pillow to try out when my upper back was tight and sore. I wanted an at-home alternative to turn to. Of course, lying on a mat is not the same as an actual acupuncture session, but this mat and pillow was an excellent decision.

The buyer reviews on this mat sold me and some have said that this mat and pillow are:

• lifechanging
• good quality material
• so relaxing

Prosource says the 6200 acupressure points of the mat and the over 1000 points on the pillow "helps relieve stress, stimulate endorphins, reduce pain, and increase energy." It's a great product for the price. It may take you some time to work your way up to lying on the mat for the recommended 20 minutes because the acupressure points are quite intense at first. After using my mat for about 15 minutes, I’m relaxed. (Yoga mat sold separately).

4.Gel Ice Pack with Knee Support Wrap by Lotfancy

Wow, this knee support wrap by Lotfancy was so helpful when my sore and achy knees were out of control. It's very easy to use, affordable, and comfortable. It comes with an ice pad that you can throw in the freezer and then slip inside of the wrap.

I really like the strong velcro hold which adheres very well to my knee, it doesn't fall down when I'm walking and it's very economical. I use my ice pack whenever I need some extra relief for my knees. It's a great product for managing chronic pain.

5.Leggings by Lululemon

Here I am after working out in my den wearing a comfy workout outfit by Lululemon. I absolutely LOVE this brand because of its mission statement, diversity, and inclusivity. And I'm in love with the products. I've owned this pair of leggings for over 8 years and they look and feel the same as the day that I bought them! 

I included leggings in my list because everything from Lululemon is comfortable and I feel sexy and strong when I wear my Lululemon clothing. If you're having a bad pain day, pull on a pair of Lululemon leggings and watch your mood soar. The price tag is more than other yoga/workout apparel out there, but it's totally worth the investment! Take care of your Lululemon clothing and enjoy them for years to come.

6.Lavender Essential Oil by Essential Oil Labs

This lavender essential oil from Essential Oil Labs is one of this company's top-selling oils for good reason.  Research studies have shown that lavender oil:

• reduces wrinkles and age spots
• improves sleep quality
• is effective for managing chronic pain
• can lower blood pressure
• relieves headaches and migraines

Oh my Lord. I love anything to do with lavender and I love this oil in particular because it's 100% pure, natural, free of chemicals, additives, and fillers, It’s also calming, relaxing, and very concentrated. I bought this bottle at least 2 years ago and I haven't finished it yet! Wow! Highly recommended.

Common Questions About Chronic Pain

What is the most common chronic pain?

Chronic pain can occur anywhere within your body. Some common types of pain are:

• headaches
• cancer pain
• arthritis pain

Over 1.5 billion people in the world have chronic pain and it's the leading cause of long-term disability in the US.

What questions should I ask a pain management doctor?

Although people mean well when they sympathize with you regarding your chronic pain, you're truly the only person who understands it and you may experience chronic pain differently from someone else.

Managing your chronic pain should be a partnership between you and your doctor, so it's important to ask insightful questions and account how you "feel" so your doctor can provide an effective management plan for you.

Think about the following questions and have a discussion with your doctor:

• Did my pain start suddenly or gradually?
• What other medical conditions do I have?
• How long have I been in pain?
• Can my pain be cured or simply managed?
• Will other health specialists be consulted?

Don't rely on your memory. Write your answers and bring them to your doctor's appointment.

What else can I try besides drugs and medication to control my pain?

If you are currently taking medication, you could also try:

• massage
• meditation
• exercise

The Last Thing You Need to Know about Chronic Pain

When managing chronic pain, you'll need some special tools in your chronic pain kit such as a microwavable neck wrap or knee ice pack. These items can really make a massive difference in your day.

It's very important to work with your health care provider, so together, you can establish an effective chronic pain management plan that works best for you.

Ready to discover some natural ways to control your chronic pain? Then join my free email course to learn how.

Related Post: How to Use Meditation to Melt Your Pain Away