All About Pain Relief

We sat down with Kaley Burns, ND, a holistic physician at Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic in Billings, Mont., to find out how she treats different types of pain using natural therapies

- Nicole Brechka

There are so many types and causes of pain. Is inflammation the underlying factor in most types?

Yes, chronic, subtle, systemic inflammation is often a factor in persistent pain. Moreover, the inflammation itself can have many underlying causes, from genetics to a utoimmune diseases, allergies, smoking or other biological stresses, chronic infections, and even the process of aging.

What are some of the most common reasons for chronic pain, like neck and back problems, sciatica, or knee and hip problems?

Of course, any past traumas or operations are on the list, but also lifestyle factors such as nutrition, activity level, occupation, etc., play a role in chronic pain. Most people I see have sedentary jobs, are lacking in optimal nutrition, and are not allowing their bodies to recover from stress.

Poor posture, carrying extra weight, and mood conditions are significant factors to evaluate when it comes to pain. New technologies are contributing to unnatural body mechanics. Driving can cause neck, shoulder, or back pain due to bad posture and bumpy roads, combined with stress.