One remedy that people can use at home for pain relief is Epsom salt baths.
The use of Epsom salt for relief from pain, stiffness, and inflammation has been around for hundreds of years. Premier Pain Management, your source for interventional pain management, recommends using Epsom salts for pain relief from arthritis and many other conditions that include pain and inflammation.
How does Epsom salt work? First, do not look for it in the spice location of the grocery store, Epsom Salt is called salt because of its chemical makeup, it is not the stuff you put on your food. It is called Epsom, because that is the location in England where it is found in natural springs. You will find Epsom salt near the aspirin because it provides pain relief. In water, Epsom salt breaks down into magnesium and sulfate and is absorbed into your body through your skin.
Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in your body. It is involved in over 600 cellular reactions in your body, including making DNA, maintaining healthy brain and heart function, and regulating muscle contractions. Magnesium acts as a natural calcium blocker to help muscles relax. Calcium binds to proteins in the muscles, such as troponin C and myosin, changing the shape of the proteins, which generates muscle contractions. Magnesium blocks the calcium from binding which helps to relax the muscles. When your body is experiencing pain, your muscles tighten up. Epsom salt baths provide your body with magnesium to relax the muscles and ease the pain.
Epsom Salt Baths can be used to treat:
- Arthritis pain and swelling
- Bruises and sprains
- Fibromyalgia
- Ingrown toenails
- Insomnia
- Psoriasis
- Sore muscles after working out
- Soreness from chemotherapy
- Sunburn pain and redness
- Tired, swollen feet
According to the Epsom Salt Council, Epsom salt may improve oxygen use, prevent hardening of the arteries and blood clots, and reduce inflammation to relieve muscle cramps and pain. As with any healthcare treatment, you should always consult with your physician before beginning any type of self-treatment.
Premier Pain Management’s pain management doctors are committed to providing their patients with responsible management of chronic pain. Epsom Salts are simply another tool that patients can use at home to provide relief from pain. For further information, contact Premier Pain Management.
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