Opioids, prescription painkillers such as morphine and oxycodone, have helped to manage pain for centuries. In recent years, however, misuse of these drugs has increased, and our nation is currently experiencing what many are calling an “opioid epidemic.” According to the Centers for Disease control, an average of 115 Americans a day overdose and die from opioid use. 30 times that number end up in an emergency room for treatment.
Arkansas is 2nd in the nation for overprescription of opioids. The state is suing manufacturers and working on stricter legislation. But all of us have choices when it comes to pain management.
Do we need opioids?
Death and injury from these medications are just part of the story. Prescriptions for opioids have tripled since the 1990s. But opioids aren’t always the best option for pain. They can help with severe pain from a terminal disease, or with short-term use for extreme pain. But they’re not a solution for headaches, arthritis pain, or lower back pain — the kinds of pain that most Americans face.
Opioids, even used according to doctors’ orders, can have unpleasant side effects. They are also likely to lead to addiction — and the longer they’re used, the more likely addiction becomes. Faced with these dangers, many people are looking for an alternative.
Chiropractic care can be that alternative
Chiropractors use gentle adjustments of the spine to help control pain. Chiropractic is a natural, non-invasive solution. It never leads to addiction, and even mild side effects are rare.
Does chiropractic care work for pain management? Recent studies say yes. Trusted medical organizations, including government agencies, recommend chiropractic care as a safe and effective alternative to pain medications, especially opioids.
- The CDC has recommended that physical therapies like chiropractic care be used for long-term or chronic pain instead of opiates. “Nonpharmacologic therapy and nonopioid pharmacologic therapy are preferred for chronic pain.”
- The FDA specifically recommends chiropractic care as a nonopioid alternative to pain management.
- The American College of Physicians includes chiropractic among their recommended alternatives to pain medication.
- New Standards from the Joint Commission tell hospitals to “promote” nonpharmologic alternatives, including chiropractic care.
These are just a few examples. The experts agree: chiropractic care is a safe and effective alternative to opioids.
The chiropractic lifestyle
Chiropractic treatment works alongside healthy lifestyle choices. Millennium Chiropractic & Rehab works with athletes like the Arkansas Razorbacks, and also with men, women, and children of all ages. Their treatments are supported by at-home exercises and wellness counseling.
Call (479) 571-8400 to schedule an appointment.