If you’re concerned about opioid use but struggling with back and neck pain, there is an alternative solution for relief.
Think chiropractic!
Research shows that chiropractic care directly relates to less opioid use in those who suffer from pain. According to a 2019 study in the prestigious British Medical Journal (BMJ) “Patients who saw a chiropractor as their initial provider for low back pain had 90% decreased odds of both early and long-term opioid use.” (Kazis et al., BMJ Open)
Opioid use from prescription drugs for pain can be dangerous and should be closely monitored. One study reports that approximately 1 in 4 patients prescribed opioids misuses them. Misuse of opioids can lead to addiction or even death.
Yet opioids are regularly prescribed by medical doctors for pain. A Foundation for Chiropractic Progress white paper reports, “more than 70 percent of doctors say they prescribe narcotic painkillers for back pain… these drugs are not considered the ideal treatment for either condition, according to the National Safety Council.”
The white paper continues to explain that “opioid-based painkillers have largely minimal effects on chronic lower back pain.”
Researchers conclude that opioids can benefit chronic low back pain patients on a short-term basis, but that even at doses much higher than recommended, the benefits are moderate.
In addition, there are some preexisting conditions that increase the odds a patient will abuse or become addicted to a prescribed opioid. According to the CDC, risks of addiction or overdose are higher with:
- History of drug misuse
- Mental health conditions (such as depression or anxiety)
- Sleep apnea
- Older age (ages 65 or older)
- Pregnancy
If you are searching for help, there is relief available for your back pain. The CDC and FDA both advise drug-free alternatives like chiropractic care. These alternatives are safer and more effective as the first response to pain.
Try chiropractic care first, instead of opioids. It’s hands-on, drug-free and better for your long-term health and pain management. Your chiropractor will work with you to get to the root of your pain. By discovering what causes your back pain, chiropractic care can address the problem, helping break the cycle of pain and put you on the path to wellness.
