Chiropractic: A Drug-Free Approach to the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pain
For many years, the first response for many types of pain, for doctors, has been to prescribe a drug or advise on an over-the-counter solution; this includes musculoskeletal pain. Now, the damage of this mindset is starting to become clear. Ever since the early 1990s, the increase in use of prescription and non-prescription opioid drugs has been significant. In fact, the problem is so severe now that it has been given the title ‘opioid epidemic’ and the ‘opioid crisis’.
As a result of this rapid increase over the past two/three decades, many associations are now attempting to increase the awareness of not only the problem but also potential solutions. For example, a key theme to many campaigns has been the message that there are alternatives available for those who don’t want to take prescription painkillers.
In 2014 alone, around 19,000 people died as a result of prescription opioids; an increase of 16% from the previous year. Therefore, the importance of alternatives, such as chiropractic care, is becoming clear to see.
Value of Pompano Beach Chiropractic Care
In recent years, the amount of support for chiropractic care from a scientific point of view has quickly increased. As time goes on, more and more studies seem to reveal the effectiveness of adjustments and other techniques used in the profession. For example, for the past two years, chiropractic care has been the recommended first response for those with acute and chronic low back pain by the American College of Physicians (ACP).
After randomized controlled trials and many studies, the ACP announced that non-invasive (and non-drug) solutions should be attempted as the first step. For example, a patient with low back pain could try spinal manipulation, heat therapy, MLS therapy or massage. If, and only if, these treatments don’t provide the required relief, then medication and muscle relaxants can be considered. All of these treatments are available with Pompano Beach chiropractor Dr. Philip Appleton at the Appleton Chiropractic Center, Powerline Road in Pompano Beach.
Switch in Mindset
For many industry experts, we’re at an important time in the medical profession and it’s pivotal that we all switch our mindset in the coming months and weeks. Whether working in the profession or suffering from musculoskeletal pain, the value of attempting non-invasive and non-drug treatments first could be huge. In many cases, pain is alleviated and the need for medication is removed with just a few chiropractic sessions.
If any patients are concerned about their healthcare policy/company, the common misconception that chiropractic services aren’t covered is…well, exactly that, a misconception. According to some studies, nearly nine in every ten American employees are covered for chiropractic care. From 2013 to 2014, the number of deaths related to tramadol and fentanyl increased by nearly 80% and this shows the danger of the opioid crisis.
Tailored Pompano Beach Chiropractic Treatment
Just recently, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) urged patients (as well as providers!) to always try conservative methods of pain management and exhaust the natural solutions before moving to the riskier methods.
For anybody concerned by how it all works, the first session with a chiropractor in Pompano Beach will include an assessment of the patient’s health condition, a review of medical history, and a physical examination. From here, the patient’s spine, posture, and functional abilities are tested and this may require imaging or other tests.
Once the Pompano Beach chiropractor has a better idea of the problem, a tailored chiropractic treatment plan can be devised which can include chiropractic adjustments and techniques from other professionals (if necessary). In addition to these techniques, chiropractors will also provide advice on dieting, exercise, lifestyle choices, habits, and more to remove the musculoskeletal pain.