Natural Relief for Pain with Chiropractic Care

by Karlynn L. Benson, D.C.

Millions of Americans are prescribed Opioids, including commonly prescribed drugs oxycodone and morphine, every day to help to manage pain. And many of them become addicted to their pain medication, which can lead to using drugs when the prescriptions run out. This epidemic led the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to issue guidelines for prescribing these medications.

But, if you are having real chronic pain, what do you do?

With virtually no side effects, alternative therapies, like chiropractic care, can reduce or even eliminate the need for strong drugs.

"Chiropractic physicians are well positioned to serve as a first line of defense in the conservative management of acute and chronic pain," says ACA President David Herd, DC. "They offer conservative-first, drug-free approaches as well as guidance on self care, that can provide needed relief for many who suffer from pain."

What are the recommendations?

Many healthcare companies see the benefits of working with patients to get them off painkillers. Recently, Cigna suggested using alternative care like chiropractic as an alternative to pain medications.

Dr. Marjorie Belsky, a specialist in interventional pain management, recommends chiropractic and other natural therapies like acupuncture, massage and yoga.

How does chiropractic help?

Chiropractic care is non-invasive. Beyond spinal adjustments, we look to consider all areas of needs and look to a plan to manage pain and  improve your overall health. Most care plans include therapeutic exercises and stretches.

We can help relieve pain that’s persisted for weeks, months or even years. The theory behind chiropractic medicine is that if your musculoskeletal structure is properly aligned, the body is better able to heal itself. Rather than medication or surgery or pain medication, the chiropractic solution is hands-on manipulation. Spinal manipulation and quick, forceful chiropractic adjustments can increase mobility in joints with restricted and painful movement

Chiropractors estimate that, of the 22 million Americans who annually seek their help, back pain brings about 7.7 million, or 35 percent, into their offices. Many find relief. Researchers studying chiropractic medicine find many positive results. A 2003 study published in the British Medical Journal followed 183 patients with neck pain through a 52-week treatment. Those who received manual adjustments recovered faster, and at about one-third the cost. The American Medical Journal also recognizes that chiropractic care can ease pain.

What You Can Do

If you suffer from pain and long to avoid opioid medications, call our office. We will thoroughly examine you to determine how you can best benefit from chiropractic treatment.