Does anyone know of any alternative pain relief options for endometriosis?
I’ve struggled with endometriosis for the last 14 years but I’m currently in the middle of a big flare up and have been off work since October. I had a laparoscopy 2 weeks ago but unfortunately the endometriosis tissue has now gone inside the wall of my uterus and the surgeon wasn’t able to remove any of it.
Over the years I have tried a number of different pain killers and hormone treatment but this time around I’m really struggling mentally with the side effects of medication.
I’m absolutely desperate to find some pain relief that doesn’t make me feel like I’m loosing my mind (ie. no Codeine, Tramadol, Oxyconde etc.)
I’m currently taking Pregabalin, paracetamol and ibuprofen (occasionally Mefenamic acid instead of the ibuprofen). The Pregabalin has really worked for me but not enough that I can get back to work.
Does anyone have any other suggestions on medication that has worked for them? I’m really open to any suggestions.
Laura xx
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Lauramcg1
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I know it may be a bit weird and out there, but have you tried acupuncture? I haven't yet but it's on my list.
How about aromatherapy and massage? Reflexology? I know they all sound a bit odd but they definately work for me. They don't get rid of my pain completely but does help me manage it better and relax more. Mines just around my period so I have the aromatherapy massage before my period - your's sounds worse though, so don't know if it would help. The lovely lady I see is also a nurse so know's about endo which helps. I have oil rubs especially made for flareups.
The above stuff may sound odd, but it's been around for centuries so is worth a try; it'll probably be something you do alongside your painkillers.
I have physio for my lower back and do core strengthening exercises - as our core is weak from the endo and operations so our back can compensate. I found both those together definately helped my lower back pain during my flareups.
I switched from chiropractor to physio quite quickly when I realised the chiropractor only deals with the spine and surrounding bones, they're not concerned about muscles and ligaments, hence why often they say to stop any exercise for the duration of the treatment and you'll find it may not help the endo symptoms but could help say a postural problem.
My exercise is the only thing keeping me sane! So I looked at physio and that's really helped as they look at the muscles, tightness and flexibility, and work to mobilise areas. In that way the body works better as it's all moving as expected.
It's a good idea to research the difference; just google chiropractor vs physiotherapist.
Be warned though that your chiropractor may not like any other treatment while they're treating you; I found that, which is why I didn't continue. They said I needed to sign up for a "course" of treatments - two days a week for 15 mins each, at £50 per session for about 6 months, I don't have that money and didn't see the benefits if I couldn't look into other treatments at the same time.
Now my symptoms have settled into a pattern:
My physio is £35 ish per month, for a 1 hour session.
Aromatherapy and massage £40 per month for 2 hour session, with £15 for an individual 200ml massage oil to use at home during my flareups which lasts about 4 months.
I go to regular weekly pole fitness classes, and core strengthening - both are definitely fun and with an amazing group of women whom all go through stuff similar to us!
I use a high strength CBD oil which is natural pain reliever and I buy from a company called Natra. It also helps with anxiety and doesn’t make you constipated like a lot of drugs do.
I found some good advice here: endo-resolved.com/natural-p... One of the best treatments I found was CBD oil and MSM powder both also help with inflammation
Laura, have you read Wendy Laidlaw's book, Heal Endometriosis Naturally: WITHOUT Painkillers, Drugs, Or Surgery and also have you tried blackseed oil? blessedblackseed oil.com ; I have heard a number of people with great success! This helps greatly to reduce the inflammation and hence pain levels.
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I’ve been seeing a chiropractor recently which has helped but I may have to look into massage and aromatherapy.
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