Pain management is a significant concern for millions of people worldwide, and the use of opioids for pain relief has become a widespread but concerning practice. The connection between pain, opioid use, and chiropractic care is complex and spans beyond a single blog – but we are committed to helping you understand risks, benefits, and alternatives for pain management, including visiting a Billings chiropractor as your first step.
The Opioid Epidemic and Its Consequences
The opioid epidemic is a public health crisis that has devastating consequences, including addiction, overdose, and loss of life. Opioids, such as prescription painkillers, are commonly prescribed for pain management, but opioids also include illicit drugs like heroin.
Unfortunately, their highly addictive nature has led to a widespread and alarming increase in opioid-related deaths and substance abuse disorders. In 2021 alone, over 12,000 individuals in the United States died from opioid-related deaths – a 2% increase from the year before.
Chiropractic Care as a Non-Opioid Alternative
Since many people begin using opioids after an injury or due to chronic pain, an alternative solution to pain management is essential. Chiropractic care offers a non-pharmaceutical, non-invasive alternative for managing various types of pain, including chronic back pain, neck pain, headaches, and musculoskeletal discomfort. Chiropractors focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of pain rather than masking symptoms with medication. They use spinal adjustments, manual therapies, and other techniques to restore proper alignment, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing within the body.
The Benefits of Chiropractic Care in Pain Management
Chiropractic care provides several advantages in the context of pain management. It is a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and aims to optimize overall health. Some benefits of chiropractic care include:
- Reduced Pain: Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain by realigning the spine and reducing pressure on nerves, leading to improved function and reduced discomfort.
- Minimized Reliance on Medications: Chiropractic care can help patients reduce or eliminate the need for pain-relieving medications, reducing the risk of opioid dependence.
- Improved Functionality: Chiropractic treatments can enhance mobility, range of motion, and physical function, making it easier for individuals to engage in daily activities.
- Personalized Care Plans: Chiropractors create individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s specific condition and needs, addressing the root causes of pain rather than merely addressing symptoms.
Safe, Non-Opioid Pain Management in Billings
The opioid epidemic has underscored the urgent need for safe and effective alternatives to manage pain. Chiropractic care offers a non-pharmaceutical approach that focuses on addressing the root causes of pain while minimizing the risks associated with opioid use. At Bare Chiropractic, we are committed to providing you with the care and expertise needed to help you find relief from pain and improve your overall quality of life.
Bare Chiropractic for Optimal Health and Wellness
If you’re seeking a safe and effective alternative to opioids for pain management, consider chiropractic care at Bare Chiropractic. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Thomas Keogh, is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care that prioritizes your well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how chiropractic care can help you find relief from pain without the risks associated with opioid use.
Sources
Corcoran, K., Bastian, L., Gunderson, C., Steffens, C., Brackett, A., Lisi, A. “Association Between Chiropractic Use and Opioid Receipt Among Patients with Spinal Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.” Pain Medicine, pnz219, https://doi.org/10.1093/pm/pnz219.
“Drug Overdose Deaths.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023 Aug 22. https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/index.html
“Drug Overdoses.” National Safety Council, Injury Facts. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/home-and-community/safety-topics/drugoverdoses/data-details/
Kazis LE, Ameli O,, Rothendler J, Garrity B, Cabral H, McDonough C, Carey K, Stein M, Sanghavi D, Elton D, Fritz J, Saper R. “Observational retrospective study of the association of initial healthcare provider for new-onset low back pain with early and long-term opioid use.” BMJ Open, 2019 Sep 20; 9(9). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31542740.
