New Study Reveals Opioids’ Failure in Treating Low Back and Neck Pain
Living with chronic pain is a harsh reality for approximately six million Canadians. In recent years, the devastating opioid addiction crisis sparked by the over-prescription of pain medication has heightened concerns about the efficacy and safety of opioid pain treatment. As a result, there is a growing need to explore alternative approaches to pain management that are both safe and evidence-based.
Chiropractic care emerges as a drug-free treatment option worth considering, offering potential benefits for individuals seeking relief from chronic pain while minimizing the risks associated with opioid addiction.
A recently published Australian study on the efficacy of opioids in addressing acute low back and neck pain provides new insights into this pressing issue.
The study divided patients with low back and neck pain into two groups: those receiving opioid treatment and those given a placebo. Over a designated period, researchers closely monitored the participants’ pain severity. The study found no significant difference in pain severity between the two groups, suggesting that opioids may not provide the expected relief for individuals suffering from acute low back pain and neck pain.
These findings not only raise questions about the effectiveness of opioid pain treatment but also underscore the growing demand for low-risk, evidence-based treatment options. In contrast to opioids, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, hands-on, and drug-free approach to musculoskeletal (MSK) treatment and pain management. Let’s explore the key benefits and effectiveness of a chiropractic care:
- Non-invasive and Drug-free: Chiropractic care avoids the use of pharmaceuticals and invasive procedures, minimizing the risk of adverse side effects and dependency.
- Comprehensive Care: Chiropractors consider factors such as posture, lifestyle, and overall health. By addressing the root causes of pain, chiropractic care can provide long-lasting relief and improve overall well-being.
- Targeted Pain Relief: Chiropractors are experts in the spine, muscles, and nervous system. They specialize in restoring proper joint function to improve mobility, decrease pain and inflammation leading to an enhanced quality of life.
- Evidence-Based Practice: With over 9,000 licensed chiropractors practicing in Canada, chiropractic care is supported by rigorous academic and practical education. Chiropractors, known as Doctors of Chiropractic (DC), adhere to evidence-informed practice principles, integrating clinical expertise, patient preferences, and the best scientific evidence.
- Integrated Healthcare Teams: Chiropractors recognize the value of collaboration and work closely with other healthcare professionals. By integrating chiropractic care into multidisciplinary healthcare teams, patients can benefit from a comprehensive and coordinated approach to pain management.
“[As a profession] it is our duty to patients to provide the best care by exploring safe and evidence-based alternatives for pain management,” commented Dr. Ayla Azad, CEO of the Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA). “Chiropractic care offers a drug-free option that targets the root causes of pain, providing relief while minimizing the risks of opioid addiction. By embracing evidence-based chiropractic care and integrating it into healthcare teams, we can revolutionize pain management and prioritize the well-being of our patients.“
Help break the cycle of ineffective pain treatment and embrace a new approach that prioritizes the well-being of individuals living with neck and back pain. Find a chiropractor near you, today!