Monitoring and managing your orthopedic health can sometimes make you feel helpless. After all, once you leave the doctor's office, what can you do for yourself?

As it turns out, there are a variety of alternative treatments you can try out at home (or right here in our offices on your next visit) that may give you a more natural boost to your overall - and orthopedic - health.

Acupuncture

One such alternative treatment the doctors at Orthopedic Institute are big-time believers in is acupuncture. We're so on board with it as a pain-management therapy that our very own Dr. Chang specializes in and administers it at our clinic. The benefits of acupuncture are plentiful, as it stimulates "meridians," a.k.a. energy pathways, that modulate your neurology. It's proven effective for treatment of illnesses such as restless leg syndrome, nausea and chronic pain or headaches.

Turmeric

Originating as a root vegetable, turmeric can be used in a nutritional sense in foods, mostly as seasoning in powdered or ground form. But it turns out it has a great deal of beneficial properties for your overall health, as well. Because of its natural oils, it has a positive effect in fighting inflammation at the joints and can ease the pain surrounding cramping, aches and pains. As far as natural anti-inflammatories go, it's a top-notch option for those seeking alternative treatments.

Manuka Honey

Sourced from the nectar of plants found most commonly in the Southern Hemisphere, Manuka honey is sometimes used in foods but, like turmeric, can have highly positive effects on your wellbeing. Because of higher levels of enzymes than traditional honey, Manuka has a pain-relief factor when it comes to burns, wounds and ulcers, as well as the ability to assist in rebuilding cells and tissue following an infection. 

Yoga

This is probably one that's familiar to you already, but yoga continues to be one of the best, easiest ways to ease joint pain and build overall wellness. The practice has been known to limber your body to stave off injury and improve your musculature and balance. And this goes without saying, but it improves your flexibility, something that can make joint pain in your knees, shoulders and the like subside considerably over time. (And best of all, there are ample opportunities to join a local class or learn yoga from a friend or family member.)

Try it out

If you have questions, talk to one of our doctors next time you stop in - we'd be happy to walk you through your options when it comes to natural, alternative options for easing chronic pain, soreness and injury.