Neck and back problems can be very painful; they are one of the leading reasons that people miss work. These problems can become chronic, causing sufferers to take stronger and stronger painkillers. Narcotic painkillers are dangerous and should never be taken for extended periods.
Misconceptions About Powerful Painkillers
1. If It’s Prescribed by a Doctor, It’s Safe
Narcotics are not safe. ER doctors are used to seeing people rushed in after overdosing on prescription narcotics. One of the reasons that the drugs are popular, other than the great “high,” is that a lot of people mistakenly think that prescription drugs are safe. That is false. In 2007, over 1,000 people were killed by Fentanyl; it was discovered that this painkiller was 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin.
2. Opioids are the Best Solution for Chronic Pain
Opioids (such as oxycodone) are actually the worst way to handle chronic pain. After only a few weeks, it becomes necessary to take a higher dose to get the same relief. Side effects include constipation, nausea, a fuzzy head, moodiness and a short temper. These drugs actually increase a person’s sensitivity to pain because of their effect on pain receptors in the brain.
3. When Prescribed for Pain, Opioids are Not Addictive
This is definitely not true. Many doctors feel that strong painkillers should never be taken for longer than a few weeks, but chronic pain, by definition, lasts longer than a few weeks.
4. Extended-Release Drugs are Safer
Extended-release drugs, including Zohydro ER, are normally the strongest version of the drug. They are sometimes prescribed because doctors believe it is convenient for the patient to take fewer pills and won’t cause a “high.” People who have become dependent on opioids prefer the stronger, extended-release drugs.
Chiropractic Treatment is Much More Effective and Safer
Chiropractic Neck Adjustment in Lexington KY is an effective way to relieve pain, allowing the body to function as it should. When vertebrae are out of alignment, this misalignment can have a dramatic effect on the body. A chiropractor uses an instrument or hands to move the vertebrae back into its proper position.
Elswick Chiropractic & Associates is widely regarded as the best non-narcotic, multi-disciplinary clinic in Lexington. Instead of becoming dependent on painkillers, try Chiropractic Neck Adjustment in Lexington KY, Spinal Manipulation or another recommended treatment. Contact the clinic to learn how they can help relieve chronic pain without narcotics.
