news of opioid abuse recently, but it seems as if Americans are more seriously considering whether or not to take any kind of prescription medicine to relieve pain, according to a new study.
In fact, 78 percent of those surveyed in a joint effort by Gallup and Palmer College of Chiropractic said they’d “prefer to try other ways to address their physical pain before they take pain medication.”
What may come as a shock is that even over-the-counter (OTC) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs frequently used to treat mild and moderate pain come with risks. Medicine as seemingly benign as aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen can trigger adverse effects such as ulcers, bleeding, gastrointestinal problems, and – in rare cases – increased risk of stroke or even kidney damage.
“If over-the-counter medications are used, it should be remembered that just because it’s OTC doesn’t mean it’s completely safe for everyone,” says Velma Wilks, RPh, a practicing registered pharmacist in Lubbock, Texas, who believes people should consider non-pharmacological approaches first.
Underscoring Wilks’ opinion is the fact that one option to both opioids and OTC drugs – drug-free chiropractic care – has grown so popular among those seeking relief from back and neck pain that it’s become something of a movement under the rallying cry of “chiropractic first.”
Highly educated and trained in the structure and function of the human body, doctors of chiropractic use hands-on techniques to help enhance flexibility, muscle strength and range of motion. And most insurance and health plans cover its use.
“One hundred million Americans suffer from chronic pain, and they deserve to know the risks about the OTC medications they’re taking,” says the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress’ Sherry McAllister, DC.
To locate a nearby doctor of chiropractic, visit f4cp.com/findadoctor.
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