Anti-inflammatories for Spinal Pain
Discover why anti-inflammatories may not be the best solution for spinal pain. Learn about the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to effectively manage pain.
Chiropractic Reduces Opioid Use
Chiropractic reduces opioid use — could this be a key to addressing the opioid crisis? The opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities, especially in the United States. I recently watched the HBO documentary Warning: This Drug May Kill You — a gripping and deeply unsettling insight into the ongoing opioid epidemic and its tragic impact on countless lives. Experts in various short clips highlight the complexity of this crisis and discuss potential solutions.
Promising Findings: Chiropractic Care and Reduced Opioid Use
A recent study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine offers some hope. It found that patients receiving chiropractic care for non-cancer low-back pain were 55% less likely to fill a prescription for an opioid analgesic compared to those who did not receive chiropractic care. This research was conducted in New Hampshire, a state with the second-highest age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths in the United States — a truly alarming statistic.
The findings, however, do come with limitations. The study was based on data from the Department of Health and Human Services of New Hampshire, but it didn’t provide details about the specific treatment modalities, frequency of visits, or other aspects of the chiropractic care patients received. Speculating on why chiropractic care led to reduced opioid prescriptions is tempting, but without further detail, it’s impossible to draw concrete conclusions. What remains promising, however, is the observation that chiropractic care appears to contribute to reduced opioid use.
The Complexities of Pain Management and Chiropractic Care
Pain is a complex experience, far more intricate than a simple cause-and-effect relationship. It involves numerous factors, including personal health behaviors, social influences, environmental conditions, and broader determinants of health. As one expert noted, “The preponderance of health outcomes result not from clinical interventions, but from personal health behaviours, as well as social and environmental determinants of health.”
The influence of chiropractic care may also extend beyond spinal manipulation. Recommendations on diet, exercise, and other holistic approaches could contribute to the overall pain management strategy. However, without further research across different populations worldwide, the generalizability of these findings remains uncertain.
A Person-Centered Approach to Pain Management and Reducing Opioid Use
Understanding pain requires looking beyond the physical symptoms. It’s about truly understanding the person — their lifestyle, experiences, beliefs, and overall well-being. Pain is multifaceted, and successful management requires an individualized, compassionate approach. Chiropractic care may contribute to reduced opioid use through a holistic approach to pain relief.
“The preponderance of health outcomes result not from clinical interventions, but from personal health behaviours, as well as social and environmental determinants of health.”
Final thoughts
While more research is needed, chiropractic care shows potential in reducing opioid use, particularly for patients dealing with non-cancer low-back pain. By offering alternative pain management strategies, chiropractic care may help decrease reliance on opioid medications, contributing to a safer, more effective approach to pain management.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
about Dr neil cuninghame
Mtech Chiro (DUT) l PG Dip Pain Mngmnt (UCT)
Hi, I’m Dr. Neil Cuninghame, a Hillcrest Chiropractor specializing in helping you move better, feel better, and live better. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, sports injuries, or everyday aches like headaches, back pain, or shoulder discomfort, I’m here to guide you toward lasting relief. With over 16 years of experience, I’ve helped athletes, busy professionals, parents, and many others overcome pain and return to doing what they love. My approach combines evidence-based care, personalized treatment plans, and a deep understanding of how the body works.
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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.
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