Much research suggests that those who receive chiropractic adjustments and care may be less likely to use opioid painkillers. While painkilling pharmaceutical drugs certainly serve a purpose, they are a band aid that covers pain never really fixing the root of the problem. They are also known to have a multitude of potential side effects and a high propensity for addiction.
The researchers analyzed the data from six previously published studies that involved over 62,000 participants. They found that 11% to 51% of the subjects used chiropractic care.
In a study published in the journal Pain Medicine, the researchers noted that those who saw a chiropractor were 64% more likely to avoid opioid use.
Patients with back or neck pain who visit a chiropractor may receive treatments such as spinal manipulation, massage, acupuncture, physical therapy exercises, and education as appropriate for their conditions.
Although chiropractic care doesn’t involve the prescription of painkilling drugs such as those in the opioid category, several studies have examined the link between treatment from a chiropractor and getting prescriptions from other healthcare providers.
Those visiting chiropractors in the first place who never start using medications faired very well in the ability to avoid doing so. Those already using pain medication were also shown to be often able to reduce or set aside the pills over time with ongoing adjustments.
Chiropractic care can help decrease the pain caused by various factors such as muscle strain and inflammation. It can also affect how the body perceives pain.
The ultimate outcome has been noted that people who seek out effective pain relief through chiropractic care are less likely to resort to opioid therapy.
If you are in pain and would like to explore alternative treatment options we would love to see you in the office of Kaster Chiropractic in Fort Myers, Florida serving all of Southwest Florida. www.kasterchiropractic.com to learn more or give us a call at 239-332-2555 to schedule your appointment.