Growing Need for Alternative Pain Treatments

(NewsUSA) - Once again, the FDA has taken action to heighten consumers' awareness for the risks associated with taking over-the-counter pain relievers.

In April 2009, the FDA mandated stronger label warnings for well known brands such as Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Excedrin and Bayer. All of these brands contain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can cause stomach bleeding. Acetaminophen, which is the pain-relieving drug in Tylenol, has been shown to cause liver damage in cases that involve even minor overdoses. The FDA is currently considering measures such as significantly reducing the level of acetaminophen per tablet to reduce liver risk.

While both NSAIDs and acetaminophen medications still have a role in treating various types of pain, there is growing demand for safe, yet effective, alternative treatment options. Depending on the type of pain you suffer, there are several options that may offer the relief you need.

Headaches & Sinus Pain:

* Capsaicin, which is extracted from pepper plants, has been highly researched by scientists. Several clinical studies have shown that intranasal capsaicin provides significant relief for severe headaches such as migraines and cluster headaches. Studies also show that capsaicin effectively relieves sinus congestion and pain without any significant side effects. All-natural capsaicin nasal sprays are relatively new to the market -- examples include Headache Buster and Sinus Buster Nasal Sprays.

For more information, go to

www.BusterBrands.com.

* Sinus Washes and Neti-Pots rinse the nasal passages with an all-natural salt-water solution, which helps flush out allergens, irritants and excess mucus that can lead to sinus problems and pain.

Arthritis/Body Pain:

* Heat Wraps are heat-activated, drug-free body wraps that provide targeted pain relief for arthritis and muscle aches.

* Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements can help restore cartilage and may help reduce pain in some people with moderate to severe knee pain. Some studies also indicate that glucosamine may help as much as ibuprofen in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee, with fewer side effects.

* Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. This is done by inserting needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation at very precise acupuncture points. To find an acupuncturist near you, go to www.acufinder.com.

"Article By: NewsUSA"