Physical Therapy: A Healthier Alternative to Opioids
A countless number of people suffer every day from chronic pain. It can be incredibly hard to live with, whether it's from an accident or an ongoing medical condition. It might seem like opioids are a fast and simple way to eliminate the pain you feel. However, there are some substantial explanations why, if at all possible, you should avoid opioid medication.
For example, you'll want to try a physical therapy program first when coping with ongoing or short-term pain, instead of depending on prescription pain medicine. To find out how a physical therapist can help you beat pain without opioids, contact Lumina Wellness and Physical Therapy today.
Why are opioids prescribed in the first place?
Opioids are a strong form of medicine that is used to relieve pain ranging from mild to extreme. There are different types of opioids, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and codeine. Below are a few reasons why this kind of pain medication could be deemed necessary:
Car Accidents
An individual may be struggling with pain due to injuries received in an automobile accident. Some people may be suffering from more than one broken bone or laceration following an accident which can increase the amount of pain they're experiencing.
Post Surgery
Many people are in severe pain immediately following a surgical procedure. Opioids are often prescribed immediately after surgery. Even after the initial few days, recovering from surgery can be a long and painful process for some individuals.
Chronic Health Conditions
There are several types of chronic conditions, such as severe back pain, neck pain, nerve damage, and fibromyalgia that can cause ongoing pain that makes it difficult to lead a functional, normal life.
Cancer
When a person is fighting cancer, both certain types of cancer and particular treatment options may cause pain. Sometimes tumors press against bones and nerves, causing increasing amounts of pain.
Work-Related Injuries
Everything from serious back issues to falls can occur on the job. Many people may feel the need to return to work as quickly as possible because of financial needs. In order to handle the pain while still working, they turn to opioids.
Why you should consider physical therapy instead of medication
While opioids often work to reduce severe pain, there are several potential drawbacks to using this strong medication. Addiction poses a huge risk, for starters. There are several important reasons to consider a physical therapy program instead of relying on opioid pain medication:
Opioids only provide temporary results
Opioids simply cover the pain like a band-aid. They can never treat the root issue. Through movement, massage, and other techniques, a physical therapist can address the issues that are directly causing the pain — providing a permanent solution.
Opioids can be pricey
Depending on how high of a dose you're taking and what type of opioid, relying on these types of pills can become costly. While the cost of physical therapy may be more upfront initially, it can quickly become more cost-effective over time.
Opioids are addictive
Unfortunately, it's easy for many people to become addicted to opioids. Opioid addiction has increased dramatically in recent years. You may also suffer from an overdose or severe withdrawal symptoms when trying to taper off opioid medication. Roughly 21 to 29 percent of patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain misuse them, according to the NIH.
Opioids can reduce your quality of life
Even if you never overdose and can afford monthly prescription costs, staying on opioids for long periods can actually reduce your overall quality of life. These medications have long-lasting, unpleasant side effects on your body.
How physical therapy helps
Physical therapy is a safe, holistic, and non-invasive way to treat chronic pain. A physical therapist begins the treatment of your condition by doing an evaluation of your symptoms and reviewing your medical history. An individualized treatment plan could be put together that addresses your specific needs — whether they involve recovering from surgery, rehabilitation after an automobile accident, or a chronic health condition. The following are several specific treatment options that are available:
Exercise therapy
An individualized physical therapy program can be put together that includes specific stretches and exercises designed after a physical evaluation is completed and geared toward reducing the particular type of pain a person is experiencing.
Heat and ice therapy
A physical therapist can use both heat and ice to soothe muscles and joints, and ultimately eliminate pain. Depending on the type of medical condition or injury, a physical therapist will determine whether heat or cold will help reduce the pain.
Ultrasound therapy
Ultrasound treatment provides joints with deep heat. This type of treatment can improve blood circulation and accelerate healing, improve connective tissues, increase flexibility, and reduce pain.
Manual therapy
A physical therapist may use many different methods that fall under the category of manual therapy — a hands-on approach that might include massage, mobilization, and techniques to strengthen the muscles, joints, and ligaments.
TENS Units
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a method of treatment a physical therapist can use to reduce pain. A TENS unit is considered safe and effective for pain relief.
Contact Our Clinic Today
If you're currently paying for costly opioids and you're convinced that there's a better alternative, you're right. Physical therapy can provide a healthy alternative to opioid use. A physical therapist can put together a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific health conditions. Contact Lumina Wellness and Physical Therapy to find out how you can start living a pain-free life with the help of a physical therapist.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our Wilmington, NC physical therapists are here to help you live pain-free. Schedule your appointment today.