If you live with chronic pain, you know that it can invade all aspects of your life. Nothing is quite as enjoyable as it could be when you are in pain. However, prescription drugs can be expensive and potentially lead to addiction. Surgery is an option for some chronic pain issues, but this option is also expensive and brings with it a lengthy recovery period. Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways to combat pain.

Natural pain relievers

1. Exercise. Mild exercise, such as walking or aerobics, helps to release your body's natural endorphins, the same substances that are synthetically produced in prescription medications like oxycodone and morphine. These natural hormones help to relieve pain as well as give you a feeling of general well being--all without the potential side effects of prescription medication.

2. Essential oils. Aromatherapy is more than just a fad. It allows you to use the body's olfactory sense to combat pain. Rosemary, lavender and peppermint oil are just some of the scents that are effective in combating pain.

3. Water therapy. Water therapy gives you the benefits of exercise without the stress on joints and tendons. This is a particularly apt method of pain control for those with arthritis or those who don't have the strength and stamina for walking even moderate distances. In water therapy, the water supports the weight of your body while providing gentle resistance to help work muscles and release pain-fighting endorphins.

4. Heat therapy. Heat is another natural way to fight pain. Heat increases the flow of oxygen to the damaged area, something that promotes natural healing. It also suppresses pain signals, helping you to feel more comfortable. There are a number of ways to apply heat to a painful area. Traditional heating pads are still a good option for localized pain, as are commercial heat wraps. For more systemic pain, hot baths or a soak in a whirlpool can help alleviate the pain.

5. Herbal remedies. Herbs have been used for centuries to help fight pain and are still effective today. Things like willow bark, turmeric and cloves have all been used to help alleviate pain.

While there is no one sure method of pain management that will work on 100 percent of the population, natural remedies, such as heat therapy, water therapy, herbs, essential oils and exercise are effective in easing chronic pain in many people. These natural remedies also avoid the hefty cost, recovery period and potential harmful side effects of prescription drugs and surgery. Click here to find out more about pain therapy.