Acupuncture

Okay, if you're afraid of needles, then maybe you shouldn't read this post. However, I promise you that these needles are nothing to be afraid of! They are wonderful little things that seem to take away pain!

Since taking two weeks off from running then starting back, my hip was still hurting pretty much constantly. It was a dull pain, but it would get worse when I was working out and after (and not to mention just plain annoying!) So I started looking into alternative ways to relieve my pain, because ibuprofen just doesn't seem to do anything, and I really don't like taking it all the time. One of my friends on Twitter is an acupuncturist and gave me the idea of trying it (and some help in finding a good acupuncturist here in Raleigh.) So I finally made an appointment and went. I admit I was nervous. The entire atmosphere in the clinic was very relaxing. I explained what my issues were with my hip and then she got to work.

The needles are so fine, you really don't feel them at all. It's amazing how something so small can do so much! It was completely relaxing (I got to take a 30 minute nap too). Within about 20 minutes, my lower back and hip were pain free! I almost couldn't believe it. When she came back, she also put a natural pain patch on my hip for added relief (it makes it cool & tingly). So far, I've had 4 hours without pain...I really hopes this lasts! Of course 1 treatment isn't going to make it completely pain free, but she explained how a series of treatments can help me. So I've got another appointment for next week!

I'll let y'all know how it goes, but if I can go without pain or pain medication, I'm all for it!

Thanks @incaseyoucare for the help!