5 Minutes
The prevalence of chronic pain
Chronic pain accounts for approximately 22 % of visits. In South Africa, chronic pain affects about 10 million people, 20% of women and 15.8% of men. The likelihood of experiencing chronic pain increases with age, with one in three people over 65 years affected.
The effects of chronic pain on quality of life
Living with chronic pain can profoundly alter every aspect of your life. Persistent pain leads to frustration, anger, anxiety, and depression. Chronic pain can erode self-esteem, limit social interactions, and strain relationships with family and friends. Many people find themselves withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, leading to loneliness and a diminished sense of well-being. Chronic pain disrupts sleep, causes fatigue, and can impair cognitive functions, including memory and concentration.
The silent toll of everyday painkillers
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications for pain and inflammation. The use of NSAIDS is especially high in older adults, with up to 96% of patients over 65 years receiving NSAIDs. These drugs are not recommended for long-term use. In the United States, long-term NSAID use leads to over 100,000 hospitalisations and 16,500 deaths each year. Common adverse effects include:
- Gastrointestinal toxicity (dyspepsia, peptic ulcers, bleeding)
- Cardiovascular risks (oedema, hypertension, heart failure, heart attack, stroke)
- Kidney damage (electrolyte imbalance, decreased kidney function, chronic kidney disease)
Codeine, the most widely used opioid globally, is available over the counter in South Africa but is now prescription-only in many countries due to concerns about misuse and dependency. Low-dose codeine is often combined with NSAIDs or paracetamol, but even at these doses, there is a risk of addiction, toxicity, and serious side effects.
The link between pH balance, pain, and inflammation
Emerging research shows a connection between the body’s acid-base (pH) balance and the development of pain and inflammation. Although normal body pH varies depending on the site, it is always being carefully monitored, regulated and balanced because even slight changes in normal pH can be harmful. Often the acid load on the body is increased because of diet, stress, or illness, this increases the risk of inflammation and tissue damage.
This is particularly applicable to the joints because when the body becomes more acidic so the fluid within the joints also shift towards acidity, it can damage cartilage and hinder its ability to repair and stay healthy. Acidosis is particularly harmful to chondrocytes, the specialised cells that maintain cartilage. In conditions like osteoarthritis, increased acidity in the joint and synovial fluid is common and is associated with greater cartilage breakdown and joint damage, as seen in rheumatoid arthritis. Even minor drops in extracellular pH can disrupt the metabolism and repair capacity of chondrocytes. For optimal growth and resilience, cartilage cells need a neutral pH environment, with pH 7 being ideal.
Holistic approaches to pain and inflammation
Given the risks of long-term medication use, it’s natural to want to find safer, more holistic ways to manage pain and inflammation. Fortunately, there are ways to manage chronic pain and inflammation without turning to painkillers.
Nourish your body
A diet rich in colourful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, and healthy fats reduces inflammation and supports joint health. Foods like oily fish, berries, and leafy greens are especially beneficial for their anti-inflammatory properties. Including foods high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can soothe inflammation. Avoiding processed foods, excessive sugar, and high intake of animal products can reduce acidity and inflammation in the body. Hydration is also important for helping to flush toxins and maintaining joint lubrication. Drink at least 2 litres of fresh, filtered water every day.
Therapies for pain relief
Dry needling, acupuncture and chiropractic care are gentle, effective therapies used to manage pain and support the body’s natural healing processes. Dry needling involves inserting thin, needles into trigger points within muscles to release muscle tightness, improve blood flow, and reduce pain. This also helps flush out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which accumulate in painful tissues, often providing immediate relief and improved range of motion.
Acupuncture, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, works by releasing muscle tightness and improving circulation. Acupuncture activates the body’s natural pain-relieving systems, including the release of endorphins. Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture can regulate inflammatory pathways, modulate immune responses, and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing inflammation and pain.
Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, using spinal adjustments and other manual therapies to restore proper alignment and movement of the spine and joints.
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A.Vogel Multiforce A.Vogel Multiforce is a source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium, as well as citrate and bicarbonate salts (alkalising minerals) and has a systemic alkalising effect. A.Vogel Multiforce supports the body’s acid buffering mechanism by providing essential alkaline minerals required to combat a typical acidogenic diet and lifestyle. |
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THRESHHOLD Real MSM Methyl-sulphonyl-methane is an organically bonded sulphur compound essential for the structure and repair of connective tissue in every living cell. MSM is found naturally in small amounts in fruits, vegetables, and grains. Taking an MSM supplement helps protect cartilage especially where sulphur deficiency exists. |
THRESHHOLD Real MSM, a proven bioavailable form of MSM, provides anti-inflammatory benefits and protects the body from oxidative damage. THRESHHOLD Real MSM is used to support conditions like back pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ syndrome, and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. THRESHHOLD Real MSM is as an anti-inflammatory and assists in the temporary relief of pain, swelling, redness, inflammation and difficult mobility of joints in patients with arthritis. It improves range of motion and physical function in arthritic patients.
THRESHHOLD Real MSM supports recovery from exercise and reduces post exercise muscle soreness and joint pain.It is well tolerated, safe for long-term use, and approved for adults and children over 12, with no known drug interactions.If you would like to learn more about MSM and the story behind THRESHHold, you can read these articles:
Empowering your health journey
Chronic pain and inflammation can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone on this journey. Understanding your options opens the door to new possibilities for comfort and improved well-being. Exploring therapies and making mindful choices that support your body’s natural balance will help you take steps towards a pain-free life.
Every person’s experience with pain is unique, and small, positive steps can make a meaningful difference. With the right support, knowledge, and a willingness to try new approaches, it is possible to regain a sense of control and hope. Trust in your body’s capacity to heal, and know that support is available to help you move forward, one step at a time.