A Look at the Top Alternative Medical Treatments Used by Athletes

There is no one on earth who sustains more injuries on a daily basis than an athlete, and because of this many are seeking alternative treatments for pain, strains, sprains and yes, even breaks. Most pharmaceutical medications carry with them a whole host of side effects that can be hazardous to the health and career of a player, and so they simply want relief and healing from products that won't do irreparable harm to their bodies. Whether seeking prevention or healing, athletes turn most to these top alternative medical treatments.

1) Acupuncture, Acupressure and Massage

Before even thinking about herbal or holistic remedies that are formulated specifically for the reduction in pain and inflammation, the one most common alternative type of treatment is a ‘hands-on' physical approach. Many athletes subscribe to Eastern philosophies for pain reduction, and so they regularly go for acupuncture, acupressure or massage treatments to help alleviate pain from an injury sustained or to promote healthier muscles and bones by what is often referred to as a form of ‘manipulation.'

2) Healing Herbs after Injuries

Traditionally, there are a number of herbs known to promote healing, and these have been the top choices among athletes and their trainers for many years. Popular herbs include:

1. Arnica
2. Comfrey
3. Stinging Nettle
4. Yerba Mate
5. Lavender

These are just a few of the most popular and each has been used for hundreds, if not thousands of years to promote healing of bones, muscular or topical injuries. They are safe and promote healing without the use of dangerous formulations and compounds that include steroids. Yes, steroids are a leading anti-inflammatory, but they are not safe for an athlete looking to reach the top of his or her game.

3) More Recent Research Offers Hope in CBD Oil

Although there is a lot of press being given to the legalization of medical marijuana, very little is ever said about the healing and restorative properties of CBD oil. As a training tool, CBD oil by far surpasses any alternative treatment on the market and the best news is that it is not illegal, even in the strictest prohibition states. CBD is not the substance in marijuana that gives you that ‘high and euphoric' feeling. That would be THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol. CBDs are the properties within cannabis that promote healing and relaxation. Furthermore, CBD oil has significant anti-inflammatory properties which makes it great as an athletic training tool. After being rubbed on areas where muscles have been worked, and overworked, CBD oil penetrates down through the deepest layers of skin to reach those muscles that are sore and throbbing.

So then, whether you are seeking a restorative Eastern remedy or are simply looking for something that is a bit easier to locate and much safer to use, there are products and therapies available in the United States that don't carry the potential harmful side effects of pharmaceuticals. Athletes want to stay healthy, even while treating injuries, and so they are paying more attention to natural cures and restoratives. Why subject your body to something that could put you out of your game forever? Why go natural? As they say, Mother Nature knows best, and when it comes to treating athletes, that's for sure.