If you have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, you are not alone. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, more than 2.3 million people in the world suffer from this condition. Multiple sclerosis is more common among women and individuals between the ages of 20 and 50.
Pain is one of the most common side effects of this disease and impacts your quality of life. However, if you are willing to make some lifestyle changes, you can live a normal life. Here are seven helpful tips for reducing multiple sclerosis pain.

1. Eat the Right Foods

The foods you eat can have an effect on your multiple sclerosis symptoms. Because multiple sclerosis is considered an inflammatory condition, it's beneficial to consume anti-inflammatory foods.
Salmon and other fatty fish, for example, are great for fighting inflammation because they are packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Avocados, olive oil, flaxseeds and turmeric also have anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for multiple sclerosis.

2. Reduce Stress

Living with multiple sclerosis can be quite stressful at times. Unfortunately, being overly stressed can make your symptoms worse. Whenever you start to feel anxious, it might be helpful to engage in a relaxation exercise, like deep breathing or meditation.
Remember to do these relaxation exercises in a quiet room with no distractions and make sure your body is in a comfortable position.

3. Get Moving

When you are in pain from your multiple sclerosis, exercise is probably the last thing on your mind. However, moving your body can actually help alleviate pain in your muscles. It's best to stick with low-impact activities, like swimming and walking, because they are easier on your joints.
Start out slowly and don't push your body too hard. If you feel pain during exercise, you should immediately stop what you're doing.

4. Get a Massage

If you suffer from multiple sclerosis, it may be beneficial to get regular professional massages. A massage can help relax your entire body, which may alleviate some of the pain. It's a good idea to see a massage therapist who has experience working with multiple sclerosis patients.
If you ever feel too much pressure or pain during a massage, don't hesitate to let the massage therapist know.

5. Get Plenty of Rest

When you are dealing with pain and other multiple sclerosis symptoms, it can be difficult to fall asleep. However, not getting enough rest can make your symptoms even worse. Doing a relaxing activity before bedtime can make it easier to fall asleep. For example, you could practice yoga or take a warm bath.
Going to bed and waking up at the same time can also make it easier to fall asleep at night as your body get used to the routine.

6. Consider Medication

If the pain gets severe enough, it may be necessary to take medication for it. For example, if you have painful muscle spasms, your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants. It's important to take the medication as directed and notify your doctor immediately if you are experiencing and side effects from it.

7. Try Acupuncture

Acupuncture can alleviate pain and other multiple sclerosis symptoms. During this treatment, an acupuncturist will insert thin needles into specific points in your body to change the flow of energy, which reduces pain. The idea of having needles in your skin might seem scary, but most people feel little discomfort with acupuncture.
Living with multiple sclerosis can definitely be frustrating at times. However, if you take good care of your body and follow your doctor's instructions, it's completely possible to have a good quality of life. If you want to learn more information about treating multiple sclerosis pain, contact Specialists in Pain Management.