A Pathway to Alternative Pain Management

Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to care that reduces pain and discomfort in the body. It focuses on manipulating and adjusting the spine and other joints to improve function and overall health and reduce pain. One of the many benefits of chiropractic care is its ability to reduce opioid use for pain management.

What are opioids?

Opioids are pain medications that are highly addictive and can cause serious side effects. In recent years, there has been a growing epidemic of opioid abuse and overdose. Many people who experience chronic pain use opioids as their primary means of pain control, which can lead to addiction and a host of other health problems, most notably death.  In 2022 there were 2272 opioid deaths in BC, and over 7000 in Canada.


In 2016, Sanjay Gupta, chief medical correspondent of CNN described the typical opioid addict, stating:

 “It is so common that specialists even have a profile for the most typical victim: non-Hispanic Caucasian male, mid 30s. Initial diagnosis: back pain due to trauma, surgery or degenerative arthritis. And, most remarkably, average time from first prescription to time of overdose death: just 31 months.”

https://www.cnn.com/2016/05/11/health/sanjay-gupta-prescription-addiction-doctors-must-lead/index.html

The typical opioid addict is not who you might imagine. They are often someone who was prescribed pain medication by a trusted doctor for a legitimate reason, such as managing postoperative pain or treating chronic pain. Over time, these individuals find themselves trapped in a cycle of dependence and addiction, as the opioids alter the brain’s chemistry.

They come from all walks of life, defying stereotypes, and their struggle highlights the urgent need for effective alternatives, such as chiropractic care, to combat the opioid crisis and provide safer pain management options.

Chiropractic Reduces Opioid Use by Half

One of the reasons chiropractic care is so effective in reducing opioid use is because it addresses the root cause of the pain rather than just masking the symptoms. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques, including spinal manipulation, stretching, and exercise, to restore proper alignment and function to the body. This approach not only alleviates pain but also promotes healing and overall health.

A recent study conducted by the American Chiropractic Association found that patients who received chiropractic care for low back pain were 55% less likely to fill a prescription for an opioid compared to those who did not receive chiropractic care(1). Another study found that patients who received chiropractic care for neck pain were 49% less likely to use opioids compared to those who did not receive chiropractic care.(2)

(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29470104/

(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32142140/

These studies highlight the importance of chiropractic care in reducing opioid use and promoting alternative forms of pain management. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to address pain and improve overall health without relying on addictive medications.

Impact on Mental Health

In addition to reducing opioid use, chiropractic care has also been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. (3)Chronic pain can be debilitating and can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Chiropractic care not only alleviates physical pain but can also improve emotional well-being and quality of life.(4) 

(3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6069670/

(4) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6112063/

Conclusion

Chiropractic care is a valuable tool in reducing opioid use and promoting alternative forms of pain management. By addressing the root cause of pain and promoting overall health, chiropractic care provides a safe and effective alternative to addictive pain medications. Patients who seek chiropractic care can experience significant improvements in pain relief, overall health, and mental well-being.

The growing recognition of the opioid crisis has sparked a sense of hope as medical doctors increasingly refer patients to chiropractors in an effort to reduce opioid use. By embracing this collaborative approach, medical professionals are acknowledging the value of alternative therapies in managing pain and improving patient outcomes.

This shift signifies a positive step towards a more comprehensive and holistic approach to healthcare, emphasizing the importance of patient-centred care and exploring safer alternatives to opioids. By working together, medical doctors and chiropractors have the potential to make a profound impact in reducing opioid dependence and improving the overall well-being of patients.