Did you know that consuming one gram of ginger before undergoing surgery may help reduce your risk of nausea and vomiting post-surgery? Although ginger is most commonly known for it’s anti-nausea benefits, it also has a plethora of other health benefits. For example, studies have proven that ginger can reduce inflammation, improve digestion and alleviate pain.
The pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are always looking into various treatment options for patients living with chronic pain, especially simple dietary changes or nutritional supplementations that can compliment Southwest Spine and Pain Center therapies. Regardless, the physicians always caution patients of potential allergic reactions, so talk to your physician before introducing any supplement into your diet.
As mentioned previously, introducing this herb into your meal plan could reduce chronic pain and inflammation symptoms. This includes chronic migraines. When studied, ginger reduced nausea and vomiting by 38 percent and diminished symptoms of dizziness significantly. Prostaglandins in the body control muscle contractions, inflammation and some hormones. Ginger is believed to block prostaglandins, which may also prevent and/or stop migraines.
And because vomiting, nausea and dizziness are common symptoms associated with migraines, putting ginger extract into your tea or water before an impending migraine could help manage your symptoms and discomfort.
Research has also shown that taking 500 mg of ginger extract twice a day is comparable to 400 mg of ibuprofen three times a day for certain pains related to arthritis. Additionally, combining orange oil and ginger for massage therapy greatly reduced stiffness and pain in knees. If you’re living with chronic pain, talk to your Southwest Spine and Pain Center physician about massaging ginger extracts and oils into your joints.
Again, there are some side effects that have been linked it this herb when taken in small doses. Some patients may experience gas, bloating, heartburn, and irritation in the mouth or heartburn. Moreover, if you are a woman who is pregnant, may become pregnant or is nursing, you should not take ginger in large doses or for long periods of time. People with ulcers, block intestines, gallstones and/or inflammatory bowel disease should also check with an SWSP physician prior to taking ginger.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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